Plastic waste is a growing problem, affecting wildlife, ecosystems and people. According to the World health Organisation (WHO), every year more than 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally and an estimated 19–23 million tonnes end up in lakes, rivers and seas with less than 10 per cent of the world’s annual plastic production recycled.
In Africa, which produces only 5 per cent and consumes 4 per cent of global plastic, growing population and urbanization are driving an increase in single-use plastic, heightening environmental pollution and health threats.
Plastic pollution is most visible in Africa where garbage collection systems are often inefficient or non-existent.
