Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed to formulate a comprehensive plan to reduce dependence on imported plastics.

Chairing a meeting on waste management in the country in Islamabad today (Wednesday), he said environmental protection is one of the top priorities of the government.

He said China's policy of banning plastic imports should also be considered in this regard.

The meeting was briefed that Pakistan generates 30 million metric tonnes of waste annually at municipal level and plastic waste makes 10 to 14 percent of total waste and it would be double by 2050.

It was informed that only 30 percent of 3.9 million tonnes of plastic waste was recycled last year. It was also told that Pakistan has imported 35,651 tonnes of plastic worth 2.4 billion rupees previous year.