Global Plastic Waste Trade Quiz

What was the main reason for the conflict between the Philippines and Canada regarding waste containers?

• The containers were full of valuable goods.

• The containers were full of garbage, including used adult diapers.

• The containers were empty.

• The containers contained illegal drugs.

What was the primary reason for the West to export plastic waste to China?

• It was cheaper to ship waste to China than to dispose of it domestically.

• China had the best recycling technology.

• China demanded more waste for its recycling industry.

• The West had no recycling facilities.

Why did China ban plastic waste imports in 2018?

• China's recycling industry was failing.

• China wanted to focus on importing other materials.

• China wanted to increase its waste exports.

• China had enough domestic waste for recycling.

What is the Basel Convention's role in the plastic waste trade?

• It promotes the use of plastic waste in energy recovery.

• It regulates which plastics can be traded and requires special permissions for certain types.

• It allows unrestricted trade of plastic waste.

• It bans all types of plastic waste trade.

What is a significant challenge in distinguishing legal from illegal plastic waste trades?

• The lack of international laws.

• The similarity in appearance between legal and illegal waste.

• The use of money laundering techniques by waste companies.

• The absence of customs checks.

What is a major environmental impact of illegal plastic waste disposal?

• Decreased water levels

• Massive pollution impacts

• Improved air quality

• Increased agricultural productivity

What is a controversial method of giving plastic waste a second life?

• Recycling into new products

• Energy recovery through incineration

• Exporting to other countries

• Burying in landfills

What is a key factor driving the illegal plastic waste trade?

• Strict environmental regulations

• High demand for recycled plastic

• Lack of awareness about recycling

• Financial incentives and corruption

What is a proposed solution for Western countries to manage their plastic waste?

• Develop their own recycling systems.

• Rely on incineration for waste disposal.

• Ban all plastic production.

• Continue exporting waste to developing countries.

Which countries have become new destinations for plastic waste as more Asian countries impose bans?

• South Africa and Nigeria

• Brazil and Argentina

• Germany and France

• Poland and Turkey