100 Years of Plastic: Using the Past to Guide the Future

Robust and credible historical material flow data are necessary to support the ongoing efforts to reconcile the economic and social benefits of plastics with their human and environmental health impacts. This study presents material flow analysis (MFA) for all plastic polymers and applications at all life cycle stages for the period 1950-2020 across the world which is separated into China, Europe, North America (NA) and the rest of the world. 3 scenarios for the next 30 years were projected. Historical account shows that, over the past 70 years, about 1.9 billion metric tons plastic waste was mismanaged, where China, Europe and NA contributed about 10%, 11% and 8%, respectively. Currently, China has the largest share in the production and consumption market. However, 10 years ago, Europe and NA kept larger share. Scenarios show that mismanaged plastic will still increase, even if global recycling rates were to reach 50% by 2050.