Breaking the plastic wave

By:
The Pew Charitable Trusts and SYSTEMIQ
Date:
2020
Resource type:
Reports and discussion papers

A world with more plastics than fish in the oceans could be a reality by 2050 if we do not partner towards a circular economy. This study shows that even if we do everything we know, apply every technology we have, we will not save our oceans unless we go to the source of the problem and act together – in partnerships. If we do nothing, we will triple the flow of plastic into the ocean by 2040.

This is a must read for public and private actors in the food system - not only because food-related packing and waste is a major contributor to plastics in the ocean, but also because it impacts the health and sustainability of aquatic-based food systems and nutrition. The report was prepared by The Pew Charitable Trusts and SYSTEMIQ, with a panel of 17 global experts, the University of Oxford, University of Leeds, Ellen MacArthur Foundation, and Common Seas.

Key findings from the report are available here: Breaking the plastic wave: Top findings for preventing plastic pollution, as well as links to download the full report and executive summary. 

This resource presents evidence or data but has not been peer reviewed