Hidden Giant of Embedded Plastics in China

Abstract

Combating plastic pollution requires an understanding of the complex intersectoral flows of plastics and related products. In this study, we develop an inventory of 150 categories of products consisting of/containing plastics based on bottom-up analysis and establish a plastics input–output material flow analysis (PIO-MFA) model that reveals intersectoral flows, sectoral consumption, exports, and stocks of embedded plastics. In 2018, consumption-based plastic usage in China reached 140 million tons (Mt), with 123.5 Mt being embedded plastics. Approximately 75.5% of embedded plastics were consumed domestically, and 21.3% were exported. Among the plastics exported, embedded plastics accounted for 68.5%, indicating the importance of the implicit transfer of embedded plastics through global trade. Furthermore, based on ambitious recycling targets, the amount of recycled plastics in China is expected to increase by 27.8 Mt. Plastics embedded in containers and packaging have the highest reduction potential, while joint efforts from the entire supply chain are crucial to reduce the amount of such plastics as industrial sectors consume 32.4% of embedded plastics. Identifying high plastic consumption sectors is critical for balancing economic and social goals with pollution control and ensuring comprehensive plastic treaty compliance. The PIO-MFA method’s foreseeable future expansion to a global level is expected to inform plastic treaty obligations and support the development and implementation of national action plans.