Approximately 6 Million Tonnes of Plastic Waste goes un-recycled every year in India.
Over the past decade we have produced and consumed more plastic than the entire century. India alone produces 40,000 Tonnes of Plastic everyday of which only 60% gets recycled. Even with these statistics India outperforms Japan, Europe, US as mentioned in a year long study by scientists from Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – National Chemical Laboratory (NCL).
While the rate of recycling plastic is higher than ever, when a survey was conducted, 9 out of 10 people said that they would recycle plastic waste more if it was easier and if they were more aware about recycling/reusing practices.
Recently, up-cycling of plastic has become a very popular way adopted by individuals in urban as well as rural areas to contribute in the recycling/reusing of plastic waste.
The State of Plastic Waste in India
– 6 million tonnes of plastic waste goes unrecycled every year in India. (Source: Central Pollution Control Board)
– India produces 40,000 tonnes of plastic daily only 60% gets recycled. (CSIR-NCL Study)
– Despite this, India’s plastic recycling rate is higher than Japan, Europe, and the US! (CSIR Report)
Why isn’t recycling higher?
A survey found that 9 out of 10 people would recycle more if it were easier and if they knew how. (UNEP Survey)
What follows are some interesting Plastic Recycling Facts
Here are the facts that reveal the surprising truth about plastic recycling and its global impact.
Plastic Recycling Fact #1
In India, 70% of plastic waste is recycled at Registered Offices, 20% by the Unorganized Sector and 10% is reused at Home.
Plastic Recycling Fact #2
50% of the Plastic is single use or use and throw plastic.
Plastic Recycling Fact #3
Out of all the plastic bottles produced only 27% are recycled.
Plastic Recycling Fact #4
When compared to incinerating plastic waste, recycling plastic saves up to 2x as much energy.
Plastic Recycling Fact #5
When not recycled, almost 0.6 Million Tonnes of India’s Plastic Waste is disposed off in the oceans. This puts India among the Top 20 countries that dump maximum plastic in the oceans.
Plastic Recycling Fact #6
The process of recycling and reusing plastic waste creates over 6x as many jobs as incineration and landfills.
Plastic Recycling Fact #7
1 Ton of Recycled Plastic saves equivalent to 5774 KWh of Electricity.
Plastic Recycling Fact #8
1 Ton of Recycled Plastic saves equivalent to 3114 Liters of Oil.
Plastic Recycling Fact #9
1 Ton of Recycled Plastic saves energy equivalent to 98 Million BTU’s.
Plastic Recycling Fact #10
1 Ton of Recycled Plastic saves equivalent to 25 m3 of Landfill Space.
Plastic Recycling Fact #11
1 Ton of Recycled Plastic saves equivalent to approximately 3,000 L of Water.
Plastic Recycling Fact #12
1 Ton of Recycled Plastic saves equivalent to approximately 7500 L of Gasoline.
Plastic Recycling Fact #13
It consumes 66% less energy to produce new plastic from recycled materials instead of raw materials.
Plastic Recycling Fact #14
There are over 7 types of plastics available today. Out of these 7, PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) & HDPE (High-Density PolyEthylene) are most easily recyclable.
Plastic Recycling Fact #15
A recycled plastic product can be back on the shelves again within a month.
Plastic Recycling Fact #16
Approximately 5-6 2L PET Bottles are recycled in 1 ft2 of Carpet.
Plastic Recycling Fact #17
Recycling 1 Plastic Bottle saves 60Wh of energy.
Plastic Recycling Fact #18
The decomposition of
– 1 Plastic Bag takes 200-1000 years
– 1 Foamed Plastic Cup takes 50-100 years
– 1 Plastic Container takes 50-80 years
– 1 Plastic Bottle takes 500 years
Plastic Recycling Fact #19
PET Plastic can be recycled and reused in the following sectors:
– Clothing & Textiles
– Toys & Stuffed Animals
– Fiber Fillings for Sporting Equipment
– Plastic Stationary
Plastic Recycling Fact #20
Recycled Plastic is recognized as a widely usable raw material in the construction industry in areas for damp proofing, ducting, flooring, etc.
Plastic Recycling Fact #21
Materials like glass and aluminium can be recycled in to the same material repeatedly. Unlike these materials, on recycling different types of plastics will degrade. Also some kinds of plastics are difficult to recycle and are manufactured for longer life span.
What Can You Do?
Even small lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the burden of plastic waste on our planet. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Say no to single-use plastics
Opt for reusable alternatives like water bottles, cloth bags, and food containers. Reducing your daily plastic footprint is one of the simplest and most effective actions you can take.
Segregate waste at home
By separating recyclable and non-recyclable waste, you make it easier for recycling systems to function efficiently. Understanding key facts about recycling can empower you to sort waste correctly and consistently.
Support local recycling and upcycling efforts
Join community clean-ups, donate plastic items to collection drives, or support brands using recycled materials. These efforts keep plastic out of landfills and oceans, turning waste into resources.
Recycle plastic bottles responsibly
One of the most surprising plastic bottle recycling facts is that a single recycled bottle can conserve enough energy to power a light bulb for hours. Imagine the impact if everyone made that one small change.
Final Thoughts
Plastic pollution is a serious global issue, but recycling provides a practical and effective solution. It helps conserve resources, reduces waste, and limits environmental harm. By learning key facts about recycling, we can make smarter choices and support better waste management. Every small step counts. When we reduce, reuse, and recycle, we move closer to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
FAQs
Q1. Why is recycling important for the environment?
Recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, conserves natural resources, and lowers pollution. Understanding basic facts about recycling helps people make more responsible choices that benefit the planet.
Q2. What are some surprising plastic bottle recycling facts?
One of the most eye-opening plastic bottle recycling facts is that recycling just one plastic bottle can save enough energy to power a 60-watt light bulb for up to six hours.
Q3. Can all types of plastic bottles be recycled?
Most PET and HDPE bottles are recyclable, but labels, caps, and residue can affect the process. Knowing key plastic bottle recycling facts can help you prepare your bottles correctly for recycling.
Q4. How can I encourage others to recycle?
Share simple facts about recycling, lead by example, and support local recycling drives. Awareness often begins with everyday conversations and small actions.
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