OECD work on plastics

Global plastics production has grown relentlessly in recent decades. Plastics help us preserve food, insulate constructions, use electronics and make vehicles more fuel-efficient, among other things. Yet, the sheer magnitude of plastics consumption in our societies results in a high production-related carbon footprint, high volumes of waste, persistent pollution and harm to wildlife and ecosystem.

In recent years, growing awareness of ubiquitous plastic pollution has steered public opinion and paved the way for stronger policy intervention on this front. The OECD's work on plastics seeks to inform and support these efforts.

Towards Eliminating Plastic Pollution by 2040: Policy Scenario Analysis

This report outlines the prerequisites needed to curb plastic pollution. Across four scenarios, the interim report considers the economic and environmental implications of varying levels of international co-ordination, policy stringency, and timelines for action.

Read the Interim findings: Towards Eliminating Plastic Pollution by 2040: A Policy Scenario Analysis released on 10 November 2023 prior to the Third Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on plastic pollution (INC-3).

For more information, please consult the Supplementary Information to the Interim Findings of the OECD report.

Global Plastics Outlook: Policy Scenarios to 2060

Global Plastics Outlook: Drivers, Impacts and Policy Options

What do the data tell us?

More resources

Browse the list of News releases, OECD reports, Policy briefs and Working papers, Environment Focus blog including events.