Australia’s plastic waste export is causing environmental problems in Indonesia. In 2023-24, Australia exported 22,333 metric tons of plastic waste to Indonesia alone.
Australia is contributing to big waste crisis in Indonesia. Indonesia took in more than 200,000 metric tons of imported waste that it can’t handle safely. Approximately 80% of the plastic waste ends up being burned or dumped.
In addition to the environmental challenges, babies are exposed to plastic-derived pollutants even before they are born. People living near burning sites are getting elevated rates of respiratory disease, cardiovascular conditions, and even cancer.