Exported Plastic: A Burning Global Health Threat

Global plastic waste exports are increasingly being openly burned in lower- and middle-income countries, leading to severe air pollution and health risks. Between 40% and 65% of municipal solid waste is openly burned in these nations, often due to inadequate waste collection systems serving billions.

When plastic burns, it releases toxic pollutants like fine particles, carbon monoxide, styrene gas, hydrogen cyanide, and persistent organic pollutants. These can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurological disorders. Ash contamination further poses risks to soil and groundwater.

Following China's 2018 ban on plastic waste imports, which previously handled 45% of global imports, waste flows shifted significantly to Southeast Asian nations and Turkey. This led to an average 3.3% increase in particulate matter air pollution at open waste dump sites in Indonesia.

In response, Indonesia restricted imports in 2021 and plans a full ban by 2025. Malaysia followed with restrictions in mid-2025. The US, which recycled only 5%-6% of its domestic plastic waste as of 2021, faces challenges with limited domestic recycling capacity.

Negotiations for an international treaty on plastic waste are ongoing, and the EU implemented new waste shipment regulations in November 2026. Ultimately, reducing plastic consumption and enhancing recycling are vital to combatting this global environmental and health crisis.