Plastics are integral to modern life but present significant environmental and economic challenges due to ineffective waste management systems. This article provides a comprehensive review of global plastic waste management (PWM) strategies, focusing on advancements in processing technologies, policy frameworks and their practical applications. It highlights the role of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and regulatory bodies across the United States, Canada, Europe, Britain, India, Japan, Australia and China in fostering sustainable PWM practices. The study evaluates key processing techniques, including pyrolysis, gasification, supercritical water conversion, plasma-assisted processes, mechanical reprocessing and landfilling, emphasizing their technological advancements, limitations and scalability. Supercritical water conversion (operating at >374°C and 22.1 MPa) and plasma-assisted processing (using ionized gas at >3000°C) are identified as advanced methods capable of converting plastics into simpler molecules or valuable by-products. However, these technologies face challenges such as high energy requirements, operational costs and limited scalability. Persistent issues, including microplastic pollution, environmental impacts and the chemical-intensive nature of certain processes, are critically analysed. Drawing on extensive reviews of patents, case studies and real-world implementations, the study also examines the reuse potential of plastic by-products in diverse industries and evaluates state-level PWM initiatives in India. This review provides actionable insights for policymakers, researchers and industry stakeholders, highlighting critical gaps and opportunities to enhance the sustainability and scalability of PWM systems. By addressing persistent challenges, it contributes to advancing a circular economy for plastics and sustainable waste management practices globally.
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