Share of plastic waste generation worldwide 2040, by application

Published by Bruna Alves, Mar 4, 2025

In a business-as-usual scenario, in which no further policy measures are implemented, plastic waste generation is forecast to nearly double by 2040, surpassing 615 million metric tons. Packaging is expected to account for the largest share of plastic waste generated, at roughly 38 percent. Meanwhile, the building and construction sector would account for some 7.6 percent.

Forecast distribution of plastic waste generation worldwide in 2040, by application

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Release date

October 2024

Region

Worldwide

Survey time period

2024

Special properties

Based on total plastic waste generation of 615.5 million metric tons

Supplementary notes

Figures were calculated by Statista based on the values of plastic waste generation by application provided by the source.

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Global plastic wastePlastics industry worldwidePlastic waste in the UKElectronic waste worldwideWaste generation worldwide
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