Until recently, our recyclable waste was sent to China, where it was transformed into a new raw material. But in 2018, Beijing made a radical decision and decided to no longer be the trash of the planet, banning most imports of plastic and paper.
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Getting stuck with their waste, rich countries have turned to other markets. Countries like Malaysia and Vietnam quickly took over. But this situation did not last long and the countries of Southeast Asia were quick to close their borders, some even returning containers filled with waste in rich countries.
As Asian countries respond, what will be the next destination for our waste? Will the developed countries be able to cope with the lack of opportunities?