Transborder trade in plastic waste and environmental concerns: A case study from Thailand

Abstract

Thailand has ratified the Basel Convention and is adhering to its restrictions against the importation of plastic scrap. The Thai government has enforced limitations to decrease the influx of plastic scrap imports, thereby affecting the ecosystem. However, Thailand has emerged as a prominent global hub for the export of plastic trash due to its tax-free zone plastic recycling programs and China's ban on such imports in 2018. Thailand's importation of plastic rubbish for recycling has caused worries due to the accumulation of plastic garbage in the environment. Plastic can be found in seafood, drinking water, rivers, sediments, and wastewater treatment facilities. Thailand is becoming more cautious about importing plastic scrap for recycling due to worries over the health hazards linked to contaminated plastic. The importation of plastic can significantly impact those engaged in the collection and trade of plastic scrap. Consequently, there are discrepancies in both company operations and plastic management. This article presents a literature review and in-depth examination of the most recent improvements in Thailand's handling of imported plastic scraps. The study examined the elements that contribute to plastic management issues and provided efficient solutions to the obstacles connected with importing plastic scraps for recycling while considering the benefits and drawbacks of such imports.