AUTHOR=Ng Chi Huey , Mistoh Mohd Aizzan , Teo Siow Hwa , Galassi Andrea , Ibrahim Azreen , Sipaut Coswald Stephen , Foo Jurry , Seay Jeffrey , Taufiq‐Yap Yun Hin , Janaun Jidon 

TITLE=Plastic waste and microplastic issues in Southeast Asia

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Environmental Science

VOLUME=Volume 11 - 2023

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/environmental-science/articles/10.3389/fenvs.2023.1142071

DOI=10.3389/fenvs.2023.1142071

ISSN=2296-665X

ABSTRACT=Plastic pollution on lands and oceans is a pressing environmental issue to date. The pilling up of waste accumulation has caused severe irreversible impacts and consequences to marine life, ecosystems, and the environments rooted in the lack of good waste collection, treatment, and management systems. The limited resources and infrastructures constantly challenge waste management in Southeast Asia. Hence, we examine the current plastic situation and issues in the Southeast Asian region, followed by understanding the issues of existing waste management systems in those countries. Next, we will examine the current practices applied in tackling plastic pollution. In addition, forging collective commitment and actions among the governments, private sectors, social organizations, stakeholders, and consumers as the key players in ending plastic pollution will be reviewed.