Impact of plastic pollution on ecosystem dynamics and greenhouse gas emissions: Empirical evidence and policy implications

Leila Ben Ltaief

ECONOMICS AND POLICY OF ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT, 2026, vol. 2026/1, issue 1, 89-113

Abstract:

The present study undertakes an evaluation of the magnitude of plastic pollution and analyses its repercussions on aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric ecosystems, with a specific emphasis on the CO 2 emissions that are a consequence of this pollution. The empirical analysis focuses on a sample of twenty Asian and OECD countries in order to compare the dynamics of plastic production, consumption, and management during 2000-2023.

The findings indicate the presence of significant disparities between the two regions. The Asian economies are distinguished by a pervasive presence of plastic pollution, a phenomenon that is intricately intertwined with the pursuit of rapid economic growth and the dearth of comprehensive waste management systems. In contrast, OECD countries benefit from more structured environmental policies, yet continue to exhibit notably elevated levels of consumption. The analysis also reveals a significant correlation between plastic pollution and carbon dioxide emissions, illustrating the contribution of this pollution to the worsening of climate change. The findings emphasize the necessity for the implementation of integrated public policies that encompass a multifaceted approach to address the environmental and socio-economic challenges posed by plastic.

Keywords: climate change; plastic pollution; GHG emissions; Asian and OECD countries; system GMM (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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