Turning off the Tap: How the world can end plastic pollution and create a circular economy - Executive Summary

This document outlines a systems-change scenario to end plastic pollution, building on the 2022 United Nations Environment Assembly decision to negotiate a legally binding agreement by 2024. It addresses root causes through three interconnected market shifts: accelerating reuse to replace single-use products, expanding recycling to compete with virgin plastics, and reorienting and diversifying markets toward sustainable alternatives. Complementary actions target legacy plastics through improved collection, responsible disposal, and prevention of microplastic leakage. If implemented globally, these measures could reduce plastic pollution by 80% by 2040, prevent 0.5 gigatons of CO₂-equivalent emissions annually, and deliver more than USD 4.5 trillion in combined direct, environmental, and social cost savings between 2021 and 2040. The transition could create 700,000 additional jobs, improve livelihoods for millions in informal sectors, and generate USD 1.3 trillion in direct public and private cost savings alongside USD 3.3 trillion in avoided environmental and social costs.