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UK Plastic Waste Exports Surge Amid Ethical Concerns

10/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In early 2025, the United Kingdom's plastic waste exports rose 84%, mainly to Malaysia and Indonesia.
Campaigners call this trend unethical and irresponsible waste imperialism.
The EU plans to ban such exports by November 2026, while the UK has no ban.
The UK plastics sector closed 21 factories in two years due to cheap imports and export loopholes.

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Story summary

In early 2025, the United Kingdom's plastic waste exports rose 84%, mainly to Malaysia and Indonesia.
Campaigners call this trend unethical and irresponsible waste imperialism.
The EU plans to ban such exports by November 2026, while the UK has no ban.
The UK plastics sector closed 21 factories in two years due to cheap imports and export loopholes.