This study uses life cycle assessment (LCA) to quantify the environmental impacts of changes in plastic waste flow and treatment methods in 18 countries after China's 2017 import ban. The ban initially increased global warming but significantly improved other environmental indicators, resulting in an annual eco-cost saving of approximately €2.35 billion (56% of 2017's global plastic waste trade value). Long-term global environmental sustainability requires a transition from export to domestic management and from landfill to recycling, potentially saving an additional €1.54-3.20 billion.

Zongguo Wen, Yiling Xie, Muhan Chen, Christian Doh Dingal