Global Plastic Pollution Reaches 57 Million Tons Annually

A new study reveals that the world generates 57 million tons of plastic pollution each year, with over two-thirds originating from the Global South, VOA reported in an article published on Wednesday. Researchers from the University of Leeds found that this volume is enough to fill New York City’s Central Park to the height of the Empire State Building.

The study highlights that 15% of the global population lacks adequate waste management, particularly in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to significant pollution levels.

Lagos, Nigeria, tops the list as the city with the highest plastic emissions, followed by New Delhi, Luanda, Karachi, and Cairo. India alone produces 10.2 million tons annually, far exceeding other nations.

The study also emphasizes the alarming rise of microplastics, which pose potential health risks. While the focus on pollution is crucial, experts caution against neglecting the upstream production of plastics, which significantly contributes to climate change.