Global Scans · Plastics · Weekly Summary

• [New] Strategic equipment upgrades are expected to facilitate the transition toward carbon-neutral plastic processing operations globally. Persistence Market Research
• [New] Leading Machine Type: Single screw extrusion machines are projected to dominate for simplicity, cost-efficiency, widespread adoption, and versatility in standard plastic processing, holding approximately 64% share in 2026. Persistence Market Research
• [New] With the growing demand for recycled feedstock across all industries, chemical recycling will be an important element for solving the challenge of plastic waste management, as well as assisting the efforts of many countries in supporting circular economies globally. Knowledge Sourcing Intelligence
• [New] Estimates of total ocean pollution to date typically do not include any contribution from nanoplastic - although as the size of plastic in the ocean skews towards smaller particles over time, we suspect that nanoplastic particles could be a globally important environmental contaminant. Environment
• [New] Plastic pollution is found in all habitats on Earth, and is considered a major environmental hazard. Environment
• [New] Currently, the plastic barons are succeeding: Plastic production is on track to double or even triple by 2050. Earth Island Journal
• [New] A global study reveals widespread human-made chemicals in the oceans, while a new campaign and Netflix documentary warn plastic-associated toxins are emerging as a major, under-recognised threat to human health. Oceanographic
• [New] At current trends, the amount of plastic entering the ocean is set to double by 2060. Economic Times
• [New] From 2028 onwards, EU regulation will restrict the use of fossil-based plastic components that persist in soil. AZOM
• [New] Without systemic intervention, plastic production and waste are projected to increase substantially in coming decades. The Greener Tech Group

Last updated: 30 March 2026