2023-05-08-联合国贸易发展委员会-塑料污染_迫切需要天然和环保的塑料替代品_77页_3mb

Summary of Report on Plastic Pollution and Natural Substitutes

The report addresses the global plastic pollution crisis and the urgent need for natural, environmentally friendly substitutes. It emphasizes that current production trends are unsustainable, with significant environmental, economic, and health impacts. Key points include:

• Plastic pollution: Production increases yearly; by 2020, 369 million tons of plastic were traded, worth $1.2 trillion. Plastics persist in landfills and oceans, contributing to GHG emissions, microplastic contamination, and ecosystem damage.

• Substitutes types:

  • Plastic substitutes: Natural materials (mineral, plant, marine, animal origin) with similar properties to plastics but lower environmental impact. Example clusters: Single-use plastics, textiles, mulch, packaging, abandoned fishing gear.
  • Plastic alternatives: Bioplastics or biodegradable plastics made from renewable biomass (e.g., corn starch, sugarcane). These are distinct from substitutes, which focus on reducing environmental impact.

• Life cycle analysis: Substitutes' environmental benefits depend on context (e.g., reusability, waste management systems). Natural fibres (e.g., bagasse, jute) show promise but face economic and logistical challenges.

• Trade analysis:

  • HS codes: Used to classify substitutes, but limitations (e.g., clarity, aggregation) hinder tracking.
  • Trade patterns: Raw materials dominate exports ($258 billion in 2020), with higher tariffs for substitutes. This creates economic barriers, as plastics are cheaper.
  • NTMs: Non-tariff measures (e.g., SPS, TBT) restrict trade, especially for developing countries.

• Economic viability: Substitutes struggle due to higher costs and tariffs. Addressing this requires policy support, removing barriers, and promoting affordable substitutes.

• Way forward:

  • Policy coordination: Strengthen multilateral agreements to incentivize substitution.
  • Trade reform: Reduce tariffs and simplify HS codes to lower costs.
  • Innovation and finance: Develop sustainable substitutes and support sunrise industries.
  • Research and data: Improve environmental and social impact assessments.

Recommendations:

1. Phasing out subsidies for fossil-based plastics and promoting substitutes through trade incentives.
2. Concerted efforts to revise HS codes and reduce NTMs.
3. Circular economy approaches focusing on reuse, recycling, and inclusive production.
4. Targeted support for developing countries to build capacities in substitute production and waste management.

The report calls for immediate global action to transition to sustainable materials, supported by trade policies, innovation, and inclusive economic strategies.