Flexible packaging plastic waste – environmental implications, management solutions, and the way forward

Flexible packaging plastic waste (FPPW) is an omnipresent waste stream that includes plastic films, bags, flexible food packaging (including mono-layered and multi-layered) and other single-use flexible plastics. Enormous amounts of FPPW continue to flow into the natural environment annually. In this study, the entry routes, fate, exposure and hazardous effects of mismanaged FPPW in various environmental compartments are reviewed, and the research gaps for the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are highlighted. Further, the prominent technological solutions to treat the FPPW are assessed. Finally, holistic approaches are discussed regarding circularity and upcycling of FPPW into useful materials, decarbonisation of the FPPW supply chain, substitution by bio-based and biodegradable plastics, and reduction of demand, in order to mitigate the environmental impacts.