Global Practices & Case Studies

The challenge of plastic pollution is global — but so are the solutions. Around the world, countries are transitioning toward circular plastic economies by combining policy reform, innovation, and community action.

This section showcases best practices, case studies, and lessons from leading examples that can inspire and guide Bangladesh’s journey toward sustainable plastic use.

Policy & Regulatory Frameworks

Japan – Resource Circulation and EPR Enforcement

Japan enforces strict Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) through its Containers and Packaging Recycling Law. Manufacturers and importers are obligated to finance collection and recycling.
Key takeaway: Shared accountability between producers, municipalities, and recyclers ensures nearly 85% recovery of packaging waste.

Read more: https://rkcmpd-eria.org/extended-producer-responsibility/legal-framework/Japan

European Union – Single-Use Plastics Directive

The EU has implemented a comprehensive Single-Use Plastics Directive banning items like cutlery, straws, and expanded polystyrene. Member States are required to set targets for collection and recycling.
Key takeaway: A clear timeline, enforcement mechanism, and producer contribution system ensure consistent compliance across countries.

Read more: https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/plastics/single-use-plastics/eu-restrictions-certain-single-use-plastics_en

India – EPR under Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016, amended 2022)

India’s EPR system mandates registration of producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) via a national online portal. The framework assigns annual recycling obligations and encourages plastic credit trading.
Key takeaway: A digital registry with annual targets ensures traceability and transparency.

Read more: https://eprplastic.cpcb.gov.in/

Rwanda – Plastic Ban Success Model

Rwanda’s total ban on non-biodegradable plastic bags (since 2008) remains one of Africa’s strongest examples.
Key takeaway: A combination of legislation, enforcement, and public awareness transformed national behavior toward plastics.

Read more: http://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1067480/FULLTEXT01.pdf

South Korea – Deposit Refund and Sorting System

South Korea introduced a deposit-refund system for plastic bottles and rigorous household sorting laws.
Key takeaway: Consumer participation and financial incentives create strong recycling habits.

Read more: https://cwrrr.org/opinions/plastic-to-go-all-eyes-on-worlds-first-compulsory-deposit-return-scheme-for-takeaway-cups-in-south-korea/

Recycling & Technological Innovations

Germany – The Green Dot System

A pioneer in producer-financed recycling, Germany’s “Grüner Punkt” (Green Dot) program requires companies to pay for packaging disposal.
Key takeaway: Financial incentives push industries to design packaging that is recyclable and cost-effective.

Read more: https://www.gruener-punkt.de/en/company/about-us

Indonesia – Waste Banks and Digital Recycling Apps

Indonesia’s “Waste Bank” model allows citizens to exchange segregated plastic for cash or goods.
Key takeaway: Community-level engagement backed by digital traceability builds accountability.

Read more: https://plasticsmartcities.org/indonesia-waste-banks-go-digital/

Switzerland – Multi-Sector Recycling Partnerships

Switzerland runs public-private waste partnerships where local authorities, brands, and recyclers share costs and responsibilities.
Key takeaway: Collaborative recycling infrastructure ensures high-quality material recovery.

Read more: https://v1.bigsack.ch/en/blogs/articles-big-sack/comment-la-suisse-mene-la-voie-en-matiere-de-gestion-durable-des-dechets?srsltid=AfmBOop6cM3KJsmEaTB05cAFFQ36I6_BMhczB7_3coB8xaA9oW4MdKgW¤cy=CHF

Sweden – Waste-to-Energy Integration

Sweden recycles or converts over 99% of its waste into energy, combining recycling with safe incineration.
Key takeaway: Investment in modern energy recovery plants prevents landfill dependence.

Read more: https://www.blueoceanstrategy.com/blog/turning-waste-energy-sweden-recycling-revolution/

Community Action & Consumer Engagement

Philippines – Community Material Recovery Facilities

Barangay-level recycling centers serve as local hubs for waste segregation and livelihood generation.
Key takeaway: Decentralized community participation sustains long-term impact.

Read  more:

Bangladesh – School Eco-Clubs and Clean-Up Campaigns

Through eco-clubs, market clean-ups, and social audits, communities are being mobilized to act on plastic waste locally.
Key takeaway: Youth and local participation drive behavior change and ownership.

Kenya – Plastic Bag Ban & Alternatives Promotion

Kenya’s national plastic bag ban created new market opportunities for cloth and jute alternatives.
Key takeaway: Entrepreneurship in alternatives sustains livelihoods while reducing pollution.

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