Plastic Waste Trade
There is an ugly truth to how the world disposes of its plastics. The Plastic Waste Trade is proof. Instead of taking responsibility for their plastic waste, many developed countries are handing over the problem to the Global South, including Malaysia.


The harmful effects
High-income countries, also known as the Global North, produce most of the world’s plastic waste and export it to lower-income countries for disposal. This Plastic Waste Trade has harmed Southeast Asia, with Malaysia importing nearly half a million tonnes of waste in early 2018. The influx of non-recyclable, contaminated waste has worsened pollution and health risks in areas like Pulau Indah, Klang, and Jenjarom.
Putting a stop to the age of plastic
Following the 2018 plastic waste influx into Malaysia, we worked with local communities to expose illegal dumping sites. Activist protests pressured the government to ban plastic imports, return waste, and shut down illegal facilities. The problem persists, but with your help, we can hold politicians accountable to end the plastic waste trade and protect communities.

Keep learning about

Plastics

Global Plastics Treaty

Our Work with Allies
How you can help
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Join the Fight Against Plastic Pollution
Unite to cut single-use plastic. Call on the Malaysian government to lead for a robust Global Plastics Treaty. Together, we make a difference!
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It’s time to Ditch Dove
If Dove won’t ditch plastic, it’s time we Ditch Dove. Sign the pledge today pledge to ditch all Dove products.
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Volunteer
Volunteers are an essential and integral part of the Greenpeace family, the heart and soul of Greenpeace. Sign up as a Greenpeace Malaysia volunteer today
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Join Champions of Change to support an end to plastic pollution
Plastic pollution is everywhere, and the road to changing the systems that have contributed to the plastic crisis can seem long and arduous. Now more than ever we need champions to remind us that we can rethink the way we produce and consume.
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“Nice Declaration” for an ambitious plastics treaty
10 June 2025, Nice, France – Over 90 member states at the United Nations Ocean Conference today announced their support to the ministerial declaration “The Nice wake up call for…
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ASEAN’s critical moment for environmental rights
Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, the region stands at a pivotal crossroads.
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