5 Countries that Produce the Most Plastic Waste

4. Brazil

Mismanaged Plastic Waste (MPW) Created in 2021 (in tons): 3.3 million

MPW Created in 2016 (in tons): 10.7 million

Brazil is one of the largest producers of plastic waste in South America, with an estimated 11 million tons of plastic waste generated annually, but has taken big strides in recent years to improve how much of that waste is properly managed.

Some of the country’s efforts have included raising awareness about the environmental impacts of plastic waste, implementing bans on certain single-use plastics, and promoting the use of more environmentally-friendly alternatives.