One global policy: Finding gaps and solutions to combat microplastic pollution

Plastic pollution, particularly microplastics (MPs), has emerged as a critical global challenge, posing significant threats to ecosystems and human health. To address this, countries have adopted a range of policy measures, however, substantial significant disparities persist in their scope, implementation and enforcement. This review systematically analysed plastic-related policies across 195 UN-recognized countries, categorizing them into high-, middle-, and low-income economies (HIE, MIE, LIE). Results indicate that although bans on single-use plastics are the most widely implemented measures, HIEs tend to emphasize extended producer responsiblity (EPR), integration of circular economy principles, and recycling mandates. In contrast, MIEs and LIEs largely rely on bans often with limited enforcement capacity and inadequate supporting infrastructure. Regional disparities are also emerged: the EU has progressed toward harmonized regulatory frameworks,whereas many countries in Asia and Africa continue to adopt fragmented or reactive approaches. Importantly, only a small number of countries explicitly address MPs in their legislation, revealing a critical global policy gap. By mapping these variations, this study identifies best practices as well as underexplored areas, and provides a framework for developing more comprehensive, enforceable strategies to mitigate plastic and MP pollution at the global scale.