04/04/2026
Plastic waste reaches the ocean mainly through litter carried by wind and rain into drains and rivers, which function as “plastic superhighways.” Additional pollution comes from discarded fishing gear. The biggest contributors are not always the largest producers of plastic, but countries with long coastlines, heavy rainfall, extensive river systems, and weak waste management. The Philippines alone accounts for an estimated 35% of ocean plastic, followed by other Asian countries including India, Malaysia, China, Indonesia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Thailand. Brazil is the only non-Asian country in the top 10. Reducing plastic production and strengthening waste systems are essential solutions.
