Framework For Plastic Waste Management, Assessment of factors impacting the circularity of plastics

Abstract

Plastic pollution has become a global problem. Around 3.3 million tons of plastic are wasted annually, with an annual plastic product usage growth rate of 15%. The recycling sector is unstructured, policies at the state level are non-existent to address plastic waste management. Pakistan, as a developing country is also turning towards circular economy practices to benefit businesses and the environment. This case study is done with support from SPEL and aims to perform a systematic literature review, analyzing the present frameworks followed by developed countries for the implementation of CE in developing countries, its critical analysis for the gaps to achieve sustainability in view of UN SDGs 2030 along with the study of factors impacting PWM. The findings showed that the current system is primarily focused on garbage collection and transportation with very little focus on its management. Religion, culture, educational awareness, and psychology can play moderating roles in implementing CE practices. It will provide a conceptual framework that can be implemented by SPEL.