Today's Top 20
A study published by Statista in 2021 identified the countries that generated the most single-use plastic waste per capita in 2019. The top 20 list comprises nations from various regions, highlighting the global nature of plastic pollution, but notably, most countries on the list are wealthier, developed nations with higher consumption levels and greater access to packaged goods. The top five offenders are Singapore, Australia, Oman, Netherlands, and Belgium, each generating over 55 kg / 121 lbs of plastic waste per person. The US ranks 9th with 53 kg / 117 lbs per capita. The only way to truly address this issue is by reducing plastic consumption by promoting sustainable reduced-plastic or plastic-free alternatives, alongside improving plastic waste management.
