The United Kingdom ranks as the third largest exporter of plastic waste globally, according to a recent Cleanhub report. Released last week, the study examines the top ten nations responsible for the largest annual exports and imports of plastic waste.
The report reveals that these leading exporters collectively dispatch over 4.4 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, representing 71% of the world’s total plastic waste exports.
Waste Data and Reluctance
Cleanhub’s analysis indicates a significant gap in official data release from governments, thus relying on industry and scientific sources for accurate figures.
Major Exporters
Germany leads the pack with an annual export of 688,067 tonnes of plastic waste. Japan follows closely, exporting 606,374 tonnes. The UK is not far behind, ranking third with 600,000 tonnes. The Netherlands exports 576,702 tonnes, while the United States stands fifth with 431,841 tonnes of exported plastic waste.
Belgium, contributing 391,263 tonnes, is another significant exporter. France dispatches 344,367 tonnes, placing it seventh. Italy and Canada export 205,621 tonnes and 201,780 tonnes, respectively. Austria rounds out the top ten with 174,976 tonnes.
Leading Importers
The Netherlands tops the list of importers, bringing in 796,234 tonnes annually. Turkey is the second largest importer, receiving 622,781 tonnes. Germany also features prominently as an importer with 503,268 tonnes.
The United States imports a considerable 446,831 tonnes, while Vietnam accepts 378,944 tonnes, placing it fifth. Malaysia imports 351,284 tonnes, followed by Belgium, which receives 282,980 tonnes. Austria imports 245,079 tonnes, Czechia takes in 203,853 tonnes, and Indonesia rounds out the list with 194,130 tonnes annually.
The Challenge of Plastic Waste
Exporting plastic waste remains a significant hurdle in addressing plastic pollution. Countries equipped to handle waste processing often outsource recycling to nations lacking proper infrastructure. This frequently results in improper disposal methods such as dumping or burning, leading to severe environmental contamination.
Pollution Concerns
The report underscores that around 5% of ocean plastic pollution—approximately 635,000 tonnes—originates from exported plastic waste, including items like bottles, bags, and plates.
Cleanhub highlights the environmental damage caused by the illegal burning or dumping of plastic waste in recipient countries, which releases toxic chemicals into the air and water. Furthermore, the annual transport of five million tonnes of plastic waste contributes 320,900 tonnes of CO2 emissions, exacerbating climate change concerns.
