Overview

• India generates about 9.3–10.2 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, accounting for one-fifth of global output.
• Tier 1 cities are the largest contributors, with nearly 40% of plastic waste uncollected each year due to weak urban governance and insufficient infrastructure.
• Approximately 40% of India’s plastic is recycled, but most is downcycled into low-value products that quickly reenter the waste stream.
• States including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Punjab, Sikkim have cut plastic waste through special task forces, targeted awareness campaigns.
• Experts outline a national plastic strategy focused on lifecycle packaging standards, advanced recycling technologies, upgraded waste infrastructure, behavioural change initiatives.