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协力推动全球塑料污染治理(国际视点)
Ren Min Ri Bao·2025-08-11 22:01

Core Viewpoint - The global plastic consumption is projected to exceed 500 million tons in 2024, with nearly 399 million tons becoming waste, highlighting the urgent need for international legal agreements to combat plastic pollution [1][2]. Group 1: Current Situation of Plastic Pollution - Nearly half of the plastic produced annually is single-use, with 18% to 20% of plastic waste entering the oceans [2]. - Without effective intervention, plastic waste entering the oceans could reach 37 million tons annually by 2040 [2]. - The cumulative economic loss from plastic pollution from 2016 to 2040 could amount to $281 trillion [2]. Group 2: Impact on Vulnerable Regions - Coastal areas and small island developing countries are severely impacted by plastic waste, despite contributing only 1.3% of global plastic waste [3]. - Research indicates that Easter Island experiences an average of 500 pieces of plastic waste washing ashore every hour [3]. Group 3: Microplastics and Health Concerns - Microplastics pose significant risks, potentially causing agricultural losses of 110 million to 360 million tons annually [4]. - The economic loss related to health issues from plastic pollution is estimated to exceed $15 trillion per year [4]. Group 4: Global Legislative Efforts - The EU has implemented the Single-Use Plastics Directive, leading to significant reductions in the use of lightweight plastic bags [6]. - Germany has introduced regulations to increase the use of recycled materials in the plastic industry and has banned free distribution of thin plastic bags [7]. - Ethiopia has enacted a law banning single-use plastic bags, with penalties for violators [8]. Group 5: Innovations and Alternatives - The global trade in non-plastic alternatives reached $485 billion in 2023, with developing economies showing a growth rate of 5.6% [10]. - Companies are exploring biodegradable packaging made from seaweed and agricultural waste, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions [10]. - Research institutions are developing technologies for microbial degradation of plastics, which could provide solutions for future plastic waste management [10][11]. Group 6: Traceability and Responsibility - Digital tools for tracking plastic products can enhance lifecycle management and accountability in plastic production [12].