Our round-up of the year’s most important stories.
Thailand bans all plastic waste imports from 1 January 2025
Thai authorities have banned plastic waste imports from the new year, setting a strong precedent for other SE Asian nations to follow. Campaigners have welcomed the move, even though it still leaves loopholes that allows Thailand to be used as a transit country for hazardous plastic destined for neighbouring states
Plastics industry heats planet 4 times as much as flying
If anyone is still in doubt about the link between plastic and climate breakdown, this US federal government report released in 2024 (and summarised more simply by GAIA) shows the devastating effects of plastic production on global warming. The modelling shows plastic alone could consume the planet’s entire carbon budget by 2060, even if all other industries miraculously decarbonised.
ExxonMobil sued over false claims about recycling
Among many, many stories about corporate greenwashing, this story of ExxonMobil’s lies about recycling stood out for the sheer scale of the deception. To add to their woes, Exxon and other plastics producers are now facing a new court case brought by a group of American citizens for similar reasons. If successful, this could open the door to a much bigger class action suit.
The microplastics map: which countries consume the most?
In June, researchers released a map of the world that estimated microplastic exposure for citizens of different countries. It revealed which people were consuming the most – and why. Where did your country come?
Bees are eating nano- and microplastics
It was sad news for bees, who were found to be consuming plastic, as well as bringing it into their hives. This is causing damage both to them and the wider ecosystem.
Finally, a shift in dynamics at the plastics treaty talks
Last but not least, there was some good news from the plastics treaty talks. Yes, nothing was agreed, but this means everything is still on the table – and the countries championing strong measures to curb production and harmful chemicals are getting louder and better organised. Watch this space for updates as we go into 2025!
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
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