On June 5, 2025, the world united to observe World Environment Day, spotlighting the escalating crisis of plastic pollution. Under the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution,” the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) led a global campaign urging governments, industries, and individuals to take decisive action against plastic waste. The Republic of Korea hosted this year’s official celebrations, with events centered in Jeju Province, renowned for its progressive waste management initiatives.
Plastic pollution has permeated every corner of the planet, contaminating waterways, harming wildlife, and infiltrating the human food chain. According to UNEP, over 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced annually, with a significant portion being single-use items. Alarmingly, only about 9% of this plastic is recycled, leading to approximately 19 to 23 million tonnes entering aquatic ecosystems each year.
The environmental and economic ramifications are profound. Plastic pollution disrupts ecosystems, endangers marine life, and imposes substantial costs on communities and industries. UNEP estimates the annual social and environmental cost of plastic pollution ranges between $300 billion and $600 billion.
This year’s World Environment Day coincides with significant strides toward a global treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution. In November 2024, the Republic of Korea hosted the fifth session of negotiations for an international legally binding agreement to end plastic pollution. The second part of this session is scheduled for August 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Jeju Province, the host location, exemplifies proactive measures against plastic waste. The province has implemented a comprehensive waste separation system, requiring residents to dispose of waste at designated recycling centers. Additionally, Jeju introduced a disposable cup deposit system, incentivizing the return and reuse of cups. These initiatives align with the province’s vision to become free of plastic pollution by 2040.
Globally, communities and organizations marked World Environment Day with various activities, including clean-up drives, educational campaigns, and policy discussions. In New York, the United Nations Headquarters hosted an event focusing on solutions to tackle plastic pollution, emphasizing the role of circular economy approaches and sustainable practices.
Youth engagement was a highlight of this year’s observance. At the Osaka-Kansai Expo in Japan, a youth event titled “Towards a Future Free of Plastic Waste” brought together young leaders to discuss innovative solutions and share initiatives aimed at reducing plastic consumption.
The UNEP’s #BeatPlasticPollution campaign underscores the urgency of transitioning to sustainable alternatives and reducing reliance on single-use plastics. By fostering global cooperation and promoting individual responsibility, World Environment Day 2025 serves as a pivotal moment in the collective effort to safeguard the planet for future generations.
