Plastic Waste Reduction

Committee:
Sustainability & Social Responsibility
status:
Some progress
Published:
Despite the implementation of a well-accepted sorting policy for efficient plastic waste collection, Japan grapples with significant challenges at the source. The nation continues to consume substantial quantities of single-use plastic items and is the second largest consumer of plastic per inhabitant after the U.S. Although the ban on free single-use plastic bags since 2020 is in place, it has not induced a substantial shift in the mindset of Japanese consumers and businesses regarding the issue of excessive plastic consumption.

Recommendations

  • The Japanese government should implement comprehensive measures to tackle the issue of plastic waste at the source. This includes strengthening regulations on single-use plastics and promoting alternatives. Additionally, public awareness campaigns should be intensified to educate citizens on the importance of reducing plastics. Collaborations with industry stakeholders and international best practices should guide the development of a robust plastic waste management strategy.