Hidden Giant of Embedded Plastics in China

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Industrial Ecology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Plastic pollution is a global challenge requiring detailed analysis of material flows.
• Understanding intersectoral plastic movement is key to effective pollution control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a plastics input-output material flow analysis (PIO-MFA) model for China.
• To quantify domestic consumption, exports, and embedded plastics in products.
• To identify sectors with high plastic consumption and reduction potential.

Main Methods:

• A bottom-up inventory of 150 product categories containing plastics.
• Establishment of a PIO-MFA model to track plastic flows.
• Analysis of consumption-based plastic usage and embedded plastics in 2018.

Main Results:

• China's consumption-based plastic usage was 140 million tons (Mt) in 2018, with 123.5 Mt of embedded plastics.
• Domestic consumption accounted for 75.5% of embedded plastics, while 21.3% were exported, highlighting trade's role.
• Recycled plastics are projected to increase by 27.8 Mt based on current targets.

Conclusions:

• Identifying high-consumption sectors, particularly containers and packaging, is crucial for plastic reduction strategies.
• Supply chain collaboration is essential for managing embedded plastics.
• The PIO-MFA model can inform global plastic treaty compliance and national action plans.