A day in the life of plastic
today
This model is carbon-intensive, relies on primary-materials extraction, creates greenhouse gas emissions and causes USD 80-120bn per year of lost value.
Click on the icons to find out more
Take
Make
Use
Dispose
Waste
Make
Use
Dispose
Waste
Take
New virgin material is extracted, depleting earth's natural resources eventually
Make
Use
Dispose
Waste
Make
Single-use plastic is produced using petroleum or other non-renewable fossil fuels
Make
Use
Dispose
Waste
Use
Plastic is used for only a short time –
carrier bags are used for 12 mins on average
Take
Make
Use
Waste
Dispose
Packaging or products
are thrown away
Make
Use
Dispose
Waste
Plastic waste ends up in landfill, being incinerated or discarded in the environment
2
1