Plastic pollution is a growing global crisis, endangering marine life, ecosystems, and human health. According to the OECD Global Plastics Outlook Database (2022), in non-OECD Asia, only 9% of plastic waste is recycled, while a staggering 87% is mismanaged or discarded into the environment. This unchecked pollution not only harms biodiversity but also accelerates climate change – plastic production relies heavily on fossil fuels and generates significant greenhouse gas emissions. 

Each year, more than 100,000 marine animals die from ingesting or being entangled in plastic waste. The impact extends to human health as well – research suggests that the average person ingests microplastics equivalent to up to 50 plastic bags per year. 

The Global Plastics Innovation Program (GPIP) was launched to drive practical solutions. Aligned with the Osaka Blue Ocean Vision, and its role in the G7 and G20, the Government of Japan, a key donor and partner, is spearheading efforts to eliminate marine plastic litter by 2050.