Focus on Arts and Ecology

June 14-20, 2019

A new network of NGOs and trade associations established on 6 June aims to eliminate marine plastic discharge in China by 2030. Initiated by WWF, the China Net Plastics Action Network aims to work with different sectors of society on initiatives ranging from public advocacy to research and policy recommendations to producer responsibility.

WWF’s latest report, “Solving the plastic problem through accountability”, warns that if trends in plastic production and consumption do not change, marine plastic pollution will reach more than 300 million tons by 2030, double 2016 levels. Production could increase by up to 40%, which would also result in an increase of 50% in CO2 emissions from the industry.

In 2008, China introduced a Plastic Limit Order to curb plastic waste, but the effect of the regulation has so far been unsatisfactory. The rapid rise of online shopping and food deliveries has increased the sources of plastic waste, far overshadowing the order’s restriction on supermarket plastic bags.

For more on the monitoring and control of plastic waste in China, seechinadialogue’s analysis last year.