Plastic Recycling in Pakistan and Japan - Learning for Leapfrogging

Plastic production is continuously increasing worldwide, and so is plastic waste. Therefore, plastic pollution control became a global concern, especially United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) Resolution leading to a global instrument involving many countries to revisit their plastic waste management systems and address the leakages across the value chain. Pakistan also joined the initiative of the World Economic Forum to combat plastic pollution and is on the way to developing its first National Plastic Action Plan (NPAP). One of the easiest ways to fight against the plastic waste issue is recycling already existing plastics. Japan is also working to fight against plastic waste issues. This paper evaluates various aspects of plastic generation and its recycling in Pakistan and compares the results with Japan. The data for this research was collected through various sources such as plastic recyclers, solid waste management experts, existing online databases, consultants, engineers, academic experts, etc., through interviews, questionnaires, and field visits. Through this assessment, the paper identifies the potential challenges and drivers in both countries as some of the drivers in one country may help other countries overcome their challenges, improve plastic waste management/recycling situation, and support a circular economy.