As the world intensifies efforts to combat plastic waste and transition toward sustainability, China has emerged as a pivotal player in advancing the plastic circular economy. According to *Plastics - the Fast Facts 2023* published by Plastics Europe, global plastic production reached 400 million tons in 2022, with fossil-based plastics still dominating at 90.6%. However, a promising shift is underway: recycled plastics now account for 8.9% of global output, signaling accelerating momentum for circularity. Notably, China contributes 24% of the world’s post-consumer recycled plastics production, solidifying its leadership in this transformative sector.
Global Trends: Recycling Gains Traction Amid Challenges
While fossil-based plastics remain prevalent, mechanical recycling has become the backbone of circular strategies, contributing 8.9% globally. Europe, for instance, sourced 12.9% of its plastics from post-consumer mechanical recycling in 2022. Yet, chemical recycling and bio-based alternatives—critical for hard-to-recycle plastics and decarbonization—remain nascent, representing less than 0.1% and 0.5% of global production, respectively.
China’s role is pivotal. As the world’s largest plastic producer (32% of global output), the nation is driving innovation in recycling technologies and infrastructure. With 22 million tons of post-consumer recycled plastics generated annually, China’s efforts are reshaping supply chains and setting benchmarks for scalability.