Managing Marine Plastic Debris in Asia and the Pacific

East Asia and the Pacific generates almost a quarter of the world's solid waste – setting global records for the highest waste producers. And, while the region is quick to consume and dispose of plastic products, the waste collection coverage remains poor, creating ample room for plastic litter to leak into waterways

This plastic leakage is a particular problem for Asia and the Pacific, as many emerging nations do not have sufficient waste management systems, capacity, budget or know-how to properly handle the needs of their growing populations and people's plastic lifestyles.

This policy brief offers solutions that are needed to close the loop on the plastic life cycle and reduce the amount of plastic. It calls on  cities and local municipalities to enact changes, such as reducing single-use plastics use and making improvements in waste management systems.