Plastic Overshoot Day 2024: Global Waste Crisis Surpasses Management Capacity
05 September 2024
Share this article
As reported by Packaging Insights, today September 5th marks the Plastic Overshoot Day, when global plastic waste surpasses the world’s waste management capacity.
In 2024, 220 million tons of plastic waste will be generated, averaging 28 kg per person worldwide. One-third of this waste, or 69.5 million tons, will be mismanaged and end up in the natural environment.
Currently, 66% of the global population lives in areas where plastic waste exceeds local management capacity.
Earth Action, a Swiss environmental consultancy and research organisation who is leading this day, highlights that recycling alone cannot solve the plastics crisis due to increasing production. The organisation calls for corporate responsibility, collaboration, and effective regulation through a UN Treaty.
12 countries, including China, Russia, India, Brazil, and Mexico, are responsible for 60% of the world’s mismanaged plastic waste. This year’s report includes plastic waste from textiles and household items, not just packaging.
Experts stress the need for innovative, non-polluting alternatives to address the crisis, emphasising the urgency for change.
Follow SAFE on social media
Social media marketing influences our food choices
As the UK, Canada, or Austria move towards restricting social media use for minors, studies…
The Lancet confirms Chile’s pioneering food policy is helping reduce childhood obesity
A new study published in The Lancet provides the first national-level evidence that Chile’s comprehensive…
Nitrates Directive must not be further weakened on digestates
BirdLife, EEB, Greenpeace, IFOAM, SAFE Food Advocacy Europe, and other Brussels-based organisations have written to…
Nestlé to remove all artificial food colourings from its products this year
French headquarters building of Nestlé Nestlé plans to remove artificial food colourings from all food…
SAFE asks European Commission to abandon plans to weaken Nitrates Directive
Group of dairy cows in the muddy coral on dairy farm outside Salt Lake City,…
Over 30 scientists warn against Food and Feed Safety Omnibus in ‘Science’
Over 30 international scientists warn against the consequences of the planned Food and Feed Safety…
