Egypt’s plastic production industry has seen remarkable growth over the past decade, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. With annual production reaching two million tons, the industry is a major economic driver. However, this growth has also led to increased plastic waste, posing environmental challenges. In response, Egypt has ramped up its recycling efforts, aiming to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution. This article explores the growth of Egypt’s plastic production industry, the challenges of plastic waste, and the strides being made in recycling.
The Growth of Plastic Production
Egypt’s plastic production industry has become a vital part of the economy, contributing at least 12 percent to the country’s GDP. The industry produces around two million tons of plastic annually, making Egypt the largest consumer of plastics in Africa. This growth is driven by rapid urbanization, population growth, and increasing demand for plastic products in various sectors, including packaging, construction, and agriculture.
The Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC) of the Egyptian Cabinet reports that Egypt’s plastics market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 10 percent over the next decade. This expansion is fueled by investments in modern manufacturing technologies and the development of new plastic products. However, the rapid growth of the industry has also led to significant environmental challenges, particularly in managing plastic waste.
Despite the economic benefits, the environmental impact of plastic production cannot be ignored. The United Nations estimates that Egypt produces approximately five million metric tons of plastic annually, making it the largest plastic polluter in the Arab world and the Mediterranean. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that balances economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Challenges of Plastic Waste
The increase in plastic production has resulted in a corresponding rise in plastic waste. In 2022/2023, Egypt generated 2.5 million tons of plastic waste, accounting for 10 to 14 percent of its total waste. This waste poses significant environmental and health risks, as improperly discarded plastics can contaminate soil and water, harm wildlife, and contribute to climate change.
One of the most alarming aspects of plastic pollution is the presence of microplastics in marine environments. A 2022 study revealed that 92 percent of fish species in Alexandria were contaminated with microplastics. This contamination not only affects marine life but also poses risks to human health through the consumption of seafood. The issue of plastic pollution is not confined to Egypt; it is a global problem that requires coordinated efforts to address.
Inadequate waste management systems exacerbate the problem of plastic pollution. Many plastic products are not properly disposed of or recycled, leading to environmental degradation. The IDSC report highlights the need for improved infrastructure and policies to manage plastic waste effectively. This includes raising awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices across various sectors.
Advancements in Recycling
Despite the challenges, Egypt has made significant progress in recycling plastic waste. In 2022/2023, the country recycled about 1.5 million tons of plastic, ranking first regionally and 14th globally in recycling rates. The government has implemented several legislative and regulatory measures to promote recycling and reduce plastic use, particularly single-use plastics.
The 2020 Waste Management Act and local bans on single-use plastics in areas like the Red Sea Governorate are notable examples of these efforts. The Ministry of Environment coordinates plastic waste reduction strategies, while the Ministry of Industry fosters innovation and competitiveness in plastic manufacturing and recycling. These initiatives aim to create a circular economy where plastic products are reused and recycled, reducing the environmental impact.
Egypt’s National Strategy for Reducing Single-Use Plastics, launched in 2022, aims to mitigate health and environmental impacts by establishing a minimum thickness for plastic bags and restricting free distribution. The strategy also promotes the development of recycling infrastructure, with plans to increase the number of recycling factories from 28 to 56. These efforts are crucial for managing plastic waste and promoting sustainable economic growth.
