More Plastic in the Ocean Than Fish? It’s Closer Than You Think

Think we’re exaggerating? Each year, over 8 million tonnes of plastic waste flows into the ocean, polluting ecosystems and harming marine life. According to current projections, by 2050 there could be more plastic in the ocean by weight than fish if we don’t radically change our relationship with plastic. 

This Plastic Free July is a timely reminder: it’s not about ditching plastic completely—it’s about rethinking how we use it, recycle it, and design it. 

The Plastic Problem 

Right now, Australia only recycles about 13% of the plastic it uses—surprisingly high on a global scale, but still shockingly low when you consider that $13 to $15 billion is spent annually on plastic packaging alone. That means 87% of our plastic waste ends up in landfill, where it’s wasted instead of being transformed into valuable, recycled plastic products. 

Why Isn’t More Plastic Being Recycled? 

Because the market for recycled plastics is still developing. It’s not that we lack the materials—it’s that we’re not using them well. A truly circular economy—where materials are reused instead of discarded—requires not just recycling systems, but innovation, good design, and consumer demand for eco-friendly products. 

Dezinery: Where Sustainability Meets Style 

At dezinery.com.au, we’re building a curated online marketplace for recycled and sustainable products that look as good as they perform. By supporting clever design and sustainable thinking, we help drive demand for recycled plastic products and reduce waste. 

Whether you're passionate about Plastic Free July, curious about plastic recycling, or just want to make more eco-friendly purchasing choices, we invite you to explore our store or sign up to our newsletter for updates on our latest products. 

Together, we can turn the tide—from a world drowning in plastic to one thriving in sustainability.