Developed nations export plastic waste to poorer countries, where it's often openly burned due to inadequate management facilities, releasing toxic pollutants and harming public health and ecosystems.
Mother Dairy is launching India's first naturally degradable milk pouch for its cow milk variant in Delhi-NCR, aiming to tackle plastic pollution from packaging that escapes recycling streams.
Nepal is tackling its plastic waste crisis by incorporating shredded plastics into road construction, aiming to create durable roads and reduce pollution. Local NGO Green Road Waste Management leads the initiative, using low-grade plastics like snack packets. While promising, environmental experts urge further research into emissions and microplastic risks.
Germany and the UK were the largest exporters of plastic waste in 2025, sending over 810,000 and 675,000 tonnes respectively. Much of this waste is destined for Turkey and Malaysia, regions already struggling with pollution, illegal dumping, and labor abuses linked to their recycling industries.
