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24-10-22 Plastics data evolution

2020 DATA (Stat)

Global plastics production was estimated to be 367 million metric tons in 2020. Production in 2020 decreased by roughly 0.3 percent compared with the previous year due to COVID-19's impacts on the industry.
The incredible versatility of this group of materials accounts for the continued growth in production year after year.

China's plastic production stands out among world regions
China is the largest plastics producer in the world, accounting for 32 percent of global production in 2020. China currently produces between six and eight million metric tons of plastic products each month.

2021 DATA (BP, PE)

Production of plastics
390.7 million tons of plastic were produced worldwide in 2021, with 352.3 million tons derived from fossil raw materials, 32.5 million tons of recycled plastic and 5.9 million tons of bio-based plastics.
Asia now accounts for more than 50% of all global plastics production. According to Plastics Europe, 21 million tons of plastic were produced in Germany in 2021.

Turnover of plastic producers totalized 31 billion euros. German plastics processing revenues of 69.4 billion euros in 2021.
When it comes to the area of plastics application in Europe, the packaging sector holds the largest share, with about 39%. Construction is in second place with 21% and the automotive sector is in third place, with almost 9%. (Source: Plastics Europe, 2021 figures)

In Brief:

Plastic production has increased roughly 6,5 % from 2020 to 2021.
Recycled and bio plastics still represent 10% of the total production.
Representative sector packaging 59% in 2018 (Hilton, 2018) vs 39% in 2021 (decrease)