The Global Market of PET Production: from Origins to Recycling

Plastic handling and manufacturing have recently increased dramatically owing to technological advancements and rising living standards. Consequently, the amount of plastic waste has significantly escalated, seriously pressuring the whole ecosystem. The impacts of waste accumulation in the environment frequently have detrimental effects on living organisms. Sustainable development goals (SDGs) propose balanced and feasible development of entire humanity, protecting natural resources and bringing a clean environment. Poly (ethylene terephthalate) - PET is a common plastic that can seriously threaten the environment if it is not handled appropriately. This review paper tends to show recent trends in the production and recycling of PET polymer on a global scale. The basis of PET chemistry together with possible applications was presented. A target period, from 2020-2024, was used to examine the quantity and main industrial suppliers around the world. Therefore, some sources state that in 2024, nearly 28 Mt of PET was produced and China was the main producer with a global share of 31%. Adequate management of the mentioned polymer is necessary for building an eco-friendly climate for future generations.