By Rasheeda Hamidu
The United Nations warned on Monday that sustainable alternatives to plastic are struggling to compete globally because of high tariffs, fragmented regulations and weak supply chains, limiting efforts to curb marine pollution and fossil fuel dependence.
The warning was contained in a United Nations News report based on analysis by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) ahead of global discussions on plastic pollution and ocean protection.
According to the report, natural alternatives such as seaweed, pineapple and banana fibre face higher trade barriers than conventional fossil fuel-based plastics.
UNCTAD stated that tariffs on plastics have fallen to an average of 7.2%, while natural substitutes face average tariffs of 14.4%, creating major obstacles for developing countries seeking to scale sustainable production.
The agency explained that fragmented standards and inconsistent regulations are also increasing compliance costs for environmentally friendly materials.
NatureNews notes that more than 52 million tonnes of plastic waste enter oceans annually, threatening marine ecosystems and affecting over 4,000 species through ingestion, habitat disruption and microplastic contamination.
According to the UNCTAD analysis, the price of polyethylene resin, widely used in plastic packaging, increased by an estimated 70% to 80% in European markets between February and April 2026 following disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.
The report stated that rising oil prices exposed the vulnerability of economies heavily dependent on fossil fuel-based plastics.
Chief Executive Officer of a Tanzanian company participating in the UK-UNCTAD Sustainable Manufacturing and Environmental Pollution Programme, Balasaheb Gavane, said businesses are finding it difficult to switch to greener materials despite growing environmental concerns.
Gavane stated that “alternatives exist, but without reliable supply, clear standards and competitive pricing, switching at scale remains difficult”.
The UN News report explained that seaweed-based materials are increasingly viewed as promising substitutes for single-use plastics because they are compostable and do not require freshwater, fertilisers or agricultural land.
According to the report, global seaweed production has tripled over the last two decades, while exports reached $3.9 billion in 2022.
UNCTAD further reported that weak international standards for seaweed products continue to limit trade opportunities and investment in sustainable packaging alternatives.
The agency explained that aligning tariffs, regulations and certification systems would help developing countries expand production and access global markets.
The report also highlighted concerns that most plastic waste continues to end up in waterways and oceans because only about 10% of plastics produced globally are recycled.
According to the UN, reducing single-use plastic production and promoting reuse systems remain critical to addressing the growing pollution crisis.
NatureNews tracks plastic pollution, circular economy initiatives and sustainable material innovation as part of its coverage of ocean conservation, waste management and climate resilience across Africa and the wider global environment.