Global Single Use Plastic Market Size Likely to Grow at a CAGR of 4.1% By 2033

As per the current market research conducted by the CMI Team, the global Single Use Plastic Market size is expected to record a CAGR of 4.1% from 2023 to 2032. In 2023, the market size is projected to reach a valuation of USD 58.4 Billion. By 2032, the valuation is anticipated to reach USD 83.8 Billion.

Single Use Plastic Market: Growth Factors and Dynamics

• Consumer Behavior and Perception: Consumer behavior and perception influence the growth of the single-use plastic market. While there is increasing awareness of environmental issues, consumer habits and preferences, including the perceived convenience of single-use plastics, continue to shape market dynamics. Balancing consumer education with sustainable alternatives is crucial for market evolution.

• Innovation and Technological Advancements: Ongoing innovation in materials and manufacturing processes contributes to the growth of the single-use plastic market. Advancements in plastic formulations, such as biodegradable or compostable plastics, aim to address environmental concerns and regulatory pressures, influencing market dynamics.

• Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness: Single-use plastics offer convenience and cost-effectiveness, driving their widespread use in packaging and various industries. The lightweight and durable nature of these materials contribute to their popularity, fostering market growth.

• Expanding Retail and E-Commerce Sectors: The growth of retail and e-commerce industries, especially in developing regions, fuels the demand for single-use plastic packaging. The need for efficient, lightweight, and durable packaging solutions to meet the requirements of online shopping and distribution channels contributes to market expansion.

• Increasing Disposable Income: Rising disposable income levels worldwide have led to an increase in consumer spending on convenience items, contributing to the growth of the single-use plastic market. Consumers often prioritize convenience, leading to a higher demand for disposable plastic products.

• Limited Alternatives and Infrastructure: The limited availability and feasibility of alternatives to single-use plastics, combined with existing infrastructures designed around these materials, contribute to their continued use. The lack of widespread recycling infrastructure also influences the market dynamics.

Single Use Plastic Market: Partnership and Acquisitions

• In 2023, Burger King’s German restaurants are adopting recyclable and reusable single-use polypropylene cups to minimize packaging waste. These cups, suitable for beverages, milkshakes, and ice cream, align with sustainability efforts. The implementation is facilitated by the RECUP deposit system, promoting responsible and eco-friendly practices in the fast-food industry.

• In 2021, Graphic Packaging Holding Company introduced OptiCycle, a new line of single-use foodservice packaging. OptiCycle is a sustainable alternative to traditional PE and PLA-coated products, as it features non-PE coatings. This innovation reflects the industry’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Report Scope

Single Use Plastic Market: COVID-19 Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the Single Use Plastic Market, with the industry experiencing both positive and negative effects. Here are some of the key impacts:

• Surge in Disposable Packaging Demand: The pandemic led to a surge in demand for disposable packaging, including single-use plastics, due to hygiene concerns. This was evident in the food delivery, takeout, and e-commerce sectors, driving increased consumption of plastic packaging.

• Disruption in Recycling Supply Chains: Lockdowns and restrictions disrupted recycling supply chains, affecting the collection and processing of plastic waste. Reduced workforce and logistical challenges hindered recycling operations, contributing to increased plastic waste in some regions.

• Shift in Consumer Behavior: Changes in consumer behavior, driven by health and safety concerns, led to a preference for individually packaged items and single-use plastics. This shift challenged pre-pandemic sustainability efforts and increased the usage of disposable plastic products.

• Resurgence in Retail and Packaging Demand: As economies recover, there’s a resurgence in retail activities and increased consumer spending, contributing to a rebound in demand for single-use plastic packaging across various industries.

• Adoption of Sustainable Alternatives: The post-COVID recovery sees an increased emphasis on sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics. Companies are exploring and adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions to align with changing consumer preferences and global sustainability goals.

• Government Initiatives and Regulations: Governments worldwide are implementing regulations and initiatives to address plastic waste and promote sustainable practices. These measures include plastic bans, extended producer responsibility programs, and incentives for the development and use of biodegradable plastics.

• Technology-Driven Innovations: The recovery phase witnesses increased investment in technology-driven innovations, including the development of alternative materials and recycling technologies. Advances in bioplastics and enhanced recycling processes contribute to a more sustainable single-use plastic landscape.

• Consumer Awareness and Education: Post-pandemic recovery involves heightened consumer awareness and education regarding the environmental impact of single-use plastics. Increased understanding of the consequences of plastic waste encourages consumers to make more sustainable choices and opt for alternatives, driving market transformation.

• Circular Economy Initiatives: Post-COVID recovery emphasizes circular economy initiatives within the single-use plastic market. Strategies such as closed-loop recycling systems, product redesign for recyclability, and the integration of recycled content in plastic products contribute to a more sustainable and circular approach to plastic usage.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a mixed impact on the Single Use Plastic Market, with some challenges and opportunities arising from the pandemic.

List of the prominent players in the Single Use Plastic Market:

• ExxonMobil Corporation
• Dow Inc.
• SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corporation)
• LyondellBasell Industries N.V.
• INEOS Group
• BASF SE
• TotalEnergies SE
• Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC
• Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited
• Borealis AG
• Amcor plc
• Berry Global Group Inc.
• Huhtamaki Oyj
• Sealed Air Corporation
• Novolex Holdings Inc.
• Others

The Single Use Plastic Market is segmented as follows:

By Product Type

• Bags and Sacks
• Bottles
• Containers
• Straws and Stirrers
• Packaging
• Others

By Application

• Packaging
• Beverage Containers
• Food Service
• Healthcare
• Retail
• Others

By Material Type

• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
• Polystyrene (PS)
• Others

By End-User Industry

• Food and Beverage
• Retail and Consumer Goods
• Healthcare
• Manufacturing
• Others

Regional Coverage:

North America

• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
• Rest of North America

Europe

• Germany
• France
• U.K.
• Russia
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• New Zealand
• Australia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Egypt
• Kuwait
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America