2021-08-31-联合国贸易发展委员会-解决海洋塑料污染和支持循环经济的材料替代品_英）_51页_5mb

Report Summary

Key Findings:

1. Plastic Substitutes:

   • Two main categories: traditional natural materials (e.g., jute, abaca, coir, sisal) and synthetic/bio-based polymers (e.g., PLA, PHA).
   • Natural materials are biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and offer export opportunities for developing countries. Bio-based polymers have high production costs and require specific industrial composting facilities for proper disposal.

2. Market Trends:

   • Natural fibers like jute and sisal dominate production in developing countries (e.g., India, Bangladesh, Brazil) and are key exports.
   • Conventional plastic packaging (especially single-use items) faces regulations and bans in many regions, increasing demand for sustainable alternatives.
   • PLA, a bio-based polymer, shows significant market growth but faces infrastructure challenges.

3. Trade Policy Issues:

   • High tariffs and non-tariff barriers (e.g., chemical additives, SPS measures, technical standards) hinder market access for substitutes.
   • Fossil fuel subsidies in major plastic-producing countries distort prices, making it harder for substitutes to compete.

4. Trade Policy Initiatives:

   • Tariff Liberalization: Reduce/import tariffs on natural fibers and bio-based polymers through plurilateral/bilateral agreements.
   • Non-Tariff Measures: Harmonize standards, promote technical cooperation, and clarify customs classifications (e.g., HS codes for substitutes).
   • Investment and Innovation: Attract foreign investment, support R&D, and encourage eco-friendly recycling/disposal technologies.
   • Green Procurement: Governments can prioritize sustainable products in procurement.

5. Conclusion:

   • Trade policies should balance environmental goals with economic feasibility. Short-term measures (e.g., tariff reductions) combined with long-term strategies (e.g., capacity building) are essential.
   • Key challenges include infrastructure gaps for bio-based polymer disposal, lack of uniform standards, and ensuring sustainable production to avoid land-use issues.

Recommendations:

• Strengthen multilateral/negotiate plurilateral agreements on environmental goods liberalization.
• Enhance capacity building and technology transfer to developing countries.
• Map global recovery/recycling infrastructure to support plastic substitutes.
• Develop harmonized standards to reduce compliance costs for exporters.