Plastics in a circular economy

There are thousands of types of plastics. Plastics production account for about about 6 % of global oil consumption, set to grow to 20 % by 2050. Half of the plastics waste collected and recycled is treated in the EU, while the other half is exported, mainly to China. It is estimated that 2 to 5% of plastics produced end up in oceans.15 to 30% of plastics entering the oceans are microplastics (mainly coming from laundering of synthetic textiles and abrasion of tyres while driving).

Source: © European Union - EP