Recycling, explained

Does our plastic recycling actually get recycled?

As awareness of plastic pollution rises, we often see ads encouraging recycling. But what happens to our plastic once it’s collected? After collection, they go to recycling facilities, but improper disposal can contaminate entire batches. In Malaysia, limited recycling facilities and an influx of imported plastic waste complicate the situation, resulting in more waste than can be processed.

A report published in 2020 estimated that only 10% of plastic globally has ever been recycled, and Malaysia’s National Recycling Rate is 35.38% as of 2023. Many plastics can’t be recycled due to contamination, lack of infrastructure or because they contain a mixture of different types of plastics that are not easily processed – this is especially true for single-use plastic (SUP). While some plastics that are meant for recycling end up in landfills, the natural environment, or incinerators, releasing harmful pollutants. Plastics take a long time to degrade and ultimately become microplastics.

In short, while some plastics are recycled, most are not, and Malaysia faces significant challenges from both domestic and imported plastic waste.

The problem with recycling in Malaysia

Malaysia became a significant destination for imported plastic waste, receiving nearly half a million tonnes of waste in early 2018 from countries like the U.S., the U.K, Germany and Japan.

Why? Initially, Malaysia had less stringent environmental regulations compared to other countries, making it an attractive option for waste exporters. This lack of oversight allowed numerous foreign companies to send their waste without strict compliance checks. Also, our country aimed to enhance its recycling capacity to meet domestic demands and boost its economy. But, the sheer volume of imported waste overwhelmed the existing infrastructure, leading to mismanagement and illegal operations.

The increase in non-recyclable and contaminated plastic waste has severely polluted areas such as Pulau Indah, Klang, and Jenjarom. Illegal dumping and burning of plastic waste in these regions have worsened air and water pollution, threatening local ecosystems.

Also, the rise of illegal plastic processing facilities has tarnished the reputation of the legitimate recycling industry. According to an anonymous insider from the solid waste sector, these unregulated operations create unfair competition and make it harder for reputable businesses to thrive. As of mid-October 2018, there were around 500 illegal plastic waste facilities reported in Selangor alone.