Overview
Plastic pollution exacerbates the deadly impacts of the triple planetary crisis: the crisis of climate change, the crisis of nature, land and biodiversity loss, and the crisis of pollution and waste.
The world is in a climate emergency. Unless greenhouse gas emissions fall dramatically, warming could pass 2.9°C this century which would have catastrophic consequences for life on this planet.
Globally, an estimated 11 million tonnes of plastic waste leak into aquatic ecosystems each year, while microplastics accumulate in the soil from sewage and landfills, due to the use of plastics in agricultural products.
The annual social and environmental cost of plastic pollution ranges between US$300 billion and US$600 billion. By 2025, the world's cities will produce 2.2 billion tonnes of waste every year, more than three times the amount produced in 2009.
Key Challenges
Climate Change Crisis
Plastic production and disposal contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions
Impact: Could lead to catastrophic warming of 2.9°C this century
Aquatic Ecosystem Damage
11 million tonnes of plastic waste leak into aquatic ecosystems annually
Impact: Threatens marine life and food chain contamination
Microplastic Accumulation
Microplastics accumulate in soil from sewage and landfills
Impact: Contaminates agricultural products and food supply
Economic Burden
Annual social and environmental cost ranges between US$300-600 billion
Impact: Massive economic losses and healthcare costs
Problem Areas to Ideate
Circular Economy Solutions
Develop closed-loop systems that eliminate plastic waste through reuse and recycling
Biodegradable Alternatives
Create innovative biodegradable materials to replace single-use plastics
Smart Waste Management
Implement AI-powered waste sorting and collection systems
Consumer Behavior Change
Design apps and platforms to encourage sustainable consumption habits
Innovation Opportunities
Circular Economy Solutions
Develop closed-loop systems that eliminate plastic waste through reuse and recycling
Biodegradable Alternatives
Create innovative biodegradable materials to replace single-use plastics
Smart Waste Management
Implement AI-powered waste sorting and collection systems
Consumer Behavior Change
Design apps and platforms to encourage sustainable consumption habits