CHINESE BAN ON IMPORTATION OF WASTE PRODUCTS: A FOCUS ON THE FUTURE OF PLASTIC WASTE

Abstract

Over the years, the world has witnessed an ever increasing use of plastics. This is because plastic is ‘versatile, lightweight, moisture resistant, strong and relatively inexpensive.’1 For a long time, due to factors such as trade imbalance, many states have found it cheaper to ship plastics abroad rather than properly deal with it themselves. China has been one such destination, taking in as much as ‘40 percent of US citizens’ recycles alone’2 This essay takes an in-depth look at why China decided to stop importation of waste products from January 2018, and the impact of such a decision within plastic exporter nations. This paper also examines new legislation to fashion out more sustainable ways to deal with plastic to build stronger economic indices within producer nations. Finally, the essay recommends that corporate groups, individuals and the government must be more involved in curbing the over use of plastics and extensive production of new plastics and instead increase use of other bio gradable alternatives such as seaweeds.