The global plastic waste management market size was valued at USD 37.95 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 46.84 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2025 to 2030. The rising environmental concerns regarding improper plastic waste disposal, along with increasing industrialization and urbanization, are major drivers propelling the growth of the plastic waste management industry.

Growing environmental consciousness among governments, industries, businesses, and consumers has heightened the focus on reducing the environmental footprint of plastic waste. Additionally, the increasing demand from plastic packaging manufacturers for sustainable disposal solutions is further stimulating market growth. Significant investments from Western governments, including the U.S. and the UK, to upgrade recycling infrastructure are also supporting the industry's expansion.

Such investments include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement in September 2023 of over USD 100 million in funding under President Biden’s Investing in America program. This initiative represents the EPA’s most substantial investment in recycling infrastructure in over three decades. Furthermore, in October 2024, the U.S. government introduced funding for a public-private initiative named the End Plastic Pollution International Collaborative (EPPIC), designed to foster international collaboration in combating plastic pollution.

The increasing emphasis on circular economy models is another significant driver for the global plastic waste management market. These models promote plastic reuse and recycling, reducing environmental impact and conserving resources. For instance, in November 2024, the U.S. EPA unveiled the “National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution,” outlining key roles for businesses, government agencies, and communities in reducing plastic waste. This strategy aligns with global efforts, where many organizations are adopting advanced recycling technologies to enable efficient sorting and processing of plastic waste, creating a sustainable value chain.

Rising living standards in both developed and emerging economies have also led to increased plastic use, particularly in packaging. This has exacerbated plastic pollution, posing serious threats to human health, ecosystems, and animal life. As highlighted in a January 2024 report, microplastics in the U.S. food and water supply contribute an estimated USD 250 billion annually to the country’s health crisis. Poor waste management in developing regions remains a significant contributor to this pollution. Consequently, the surge in plastic production, paired with mounting concerns over waste disposal, presents substantial opportunities for the plastic waste management market in the forecast period.

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Key Market Trends & Insights:

• Asia Pacific led the global plastic waste management market with a 50.1% share and is projected to grow the fastest through 2030.

• China held the largest revenue share in the Asia Pacific market in 2024.

• The landfill segment was the leading service category, accounting for 44.7% in 2024.

• Polypropylene (PP) emerged as the dominant polymer type and is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period.

• By source, plastic caps and closures held the largest share in 2024.

Market Size & Forecast:

• 2024 Market Size: USD 37.95 Billion

• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 46.84 Billion

• CAGR (2025–2030): 3.6%

• Leading Region: Asia Pacific

Key Plastic Waste Management Company Insights:

Prominent players in the plastic waste management industry include Republic Services, Inc., Veolia Environnement S.A., and Biffa PLC, among others. These companies are actively pursuing strategic initiatives such as mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships to enhance their market presence and broaden their service offerings.

• Veolia Environnement S.A., founded in 1853 and headquartered in Aubervilliers, France, offers waste, water, and energy services globally. Its solutions include waste management, air quality services, landfill operations, biogas recovery, and industrial cleaning, serving both municipal and industrial clients.

• Biffa PLC, established in 1912 and headquartered in High Wycombe, UK, provides waste collection, processing, and recycling solutions across the UK. With over 8,000 employees, Biffa serves sectors including packaging, municipal, and industrial waste.

• Other notable companies in the industry include Stericycle, Progressive Waste Solutions Ltd., SUEZ Environments Company, Waste Management, Inc., Waste Connections Inc., Clean Harbors, Inc., Covanta Holding Corporation, Remondis SE & Co. KG, ADS Waste Holdings, Inc., Hawkvale Limited, Hahn Plastics Limited, and United Plastic Recycling, Inc.

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Conclusion:

The plastic waste management market is poised for steady growth, driven by regulatory initiatives, public-private partnerships, and increasing global awareness of the environmental hazards of plastic waste. As circular economy models and advanced recycling technologies gain momentum, industry players have a significant opportunity to innovate and align with global sustainability goals. With supportive policies, investments, and collaborations across regions, the market is expected to play a pivotal role in reducing plastic pollution and building a more sustainable future.