The Statistical Guideline for Measuring Flows of Plastic Throughout the Life Cycle (UNEP & UNITAR, 2026) provides a standardized method to track plastic production, use, waste, and environmental leakage globally. It defines key terms, life cycle stages, and metrics to ensure comparable national and international data.
Key Insights
Enforcement & Scope: Offers a global framework to measure plastic flows from production to disposal.
Core Indicators: Tracks production, imports, exports, consumption, and waste.
Policy Use: Supports evidence-based policies on plastic reduction, circular economy, and SDGs.
Capacity Building: Guides national agencies on data collection, reporting, and improving statistics.
The guideline helps countries monitor plastic pollution, identify gaps, and make informed decisions for sustainable plastic management.
