Global plastics data gaps hamper evidence-based policymaking

Significant gaps in the availability, quality, accessibility and comparability of global plastics data are hampering efforts by governments to develop effective policies to tackle plastic pollution, experts said on Wednesday.

The experts spoke during the launch of a practical step-by-step guide aimed at helping governments establish national data systems capable of tracking plastics throughout their life cycle and supporting evidence-based policymaking.

Developed by the University of New South Wales or UNSW Centre for Sustainable Development Reform and the Global Ocean Accounts Partnership, the guide outlines seven steps, from identifying relevant data to establishing systems for ongoing data management.

It provides guidance on tracking plastics across their full life cycle, including production, trade, consumption, waste generation and collection, treatment and disposal, as well as plastics in the environment.

Speaking at the handbook launch webinar, Randika Jayasinghe, plastics waste and circular economy specialist at UNSW'S Centre for Sustainable Development Reform, said robust and standardized data is essential for effective policymaking.

"Without robust, standardized data, policymakers cannot design targeted interventions, allocate resources efficiently, evaluate whether interventions have worked, or report progress on national and international commitments," she said.

Swati Singh Sambyal, principal expert at GRID-Arendal, a non-profit environmental organization headquartered in Norway, said plastic pollution is projected to grow by more than 100 percent by 2040, with significant growth expected across terrestrial and open-burning pathways.

"This tells us the problem is accelerating not stabilizing," she said. "Governments are also under pressure to respond through national policies and accountability frameworks."