Hidden Giant of\nEmbedded Plastics in China

Combating plastic pollution requires an understanding\nof the complex\nintersectoral flows of plastics and related products. In this study,\nwe develop an inventory of 150 categories of products consisting of/containing\nplastics based on bottom-up analysis and establish a plastics input–output\nmaterial flow analysis (PIO-MFA) model that reveals intersectoral\nflows, sectoral consumption, exports, and stocks of embedded plastics.\nIn 2018, consumption-based plastic usage in China reached 140 million\ntons (Mt), with 123.5 Mt being embedded plastics. Approximately 75.5%\nof embedded plastics were consumed domestically, and 21.3% were exported.\nAmong the plastics exported, embedded plastics accounted for 68.5%,\nindicating the importance of the implicit transfer of embedded plastics\nthrough global trade. Furthermore, based on ambitious recycling targets,\nthe amount of recycled plastics in China is expected to increase by\n27.8 Mt. Plastics embedded in containers and packaging have the highest\nreduction potential, while joint efforts from the entire supply chain\nare crucial to reduce the amount of such plastics as industrial sectors\nconsume 32.4% of embedded plastics. Identifying high plastic consumption\nsectors is critical for balancing economic and social goals with pollution\ncontrol and ensuring comprehensive plastic treaty compliance. The\nPIO-MFA method’s foreseeable future expansion to a global level\nis expected to inform plastic treaty obligations and support the development\nand implementation of national action plans.