Plastic production and recycling have become integral to modern society, but their environmental and health impacts are significant. This review summarizes key findings from a comprehensive assessment of these impacts, drawing from scientific literature and empirical studies. Plastic production involves extracting raw materials like crude oil and natural gas, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and pollution of air, water, and soil. Plastic waste, especially single-use items, threatens ecosystems and wildlife, with marine environments being particularly vulnerable. While recycling is promoted as a solution, its effectiveness is limited by factors such as contamination, inadequate infrastructure, and low collection rates. Recycling itself can generate pollutants, though to a lesser extent than primary production. Health implications include endocrine disruption and other issues from additives like phthalates and bisphenols in plastics. Microplastics accumulate in the environment, raising concerns about bioaccumulation and transfer through the food chain. Addressing these impacts requires reducing plastic consumption, improving recycling infrastructure, developing alternative materials, and implementing policies to promote sustainable practices. Case studies from San Francisco and Taiwan demonstrate successful waste management strategies. Future directions include developing innovative recycling technologies, promoting circular economy principles, and enhancing public awareness. The review highlights the need for collective action to mitigate the environmental and health impacts of plastic pollution.Plastic production and recycling have become integral to modern society, but their environmental and health impacts are significant. This review summarizes key findings from a comprehensive assessment of these impacts, drawing from scientific literature and empirical studies. Plastic production involves extracting raw materials like crude oil and natural gas, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and pollution of air, water, and soil. Plastic waste, especially single-use items, threatens ecosystems and wildlife, with marine environments being particularly vulnerable. While recycling is promoted as a solution, its effectiveness is limited by factors such as contamination, inadequate infrastructure, and low collection rates. Recycling itself can generate pollutants, though to a lesser extent than primary production. Health implications include endocrine disruption and other issues from additives like phthalates and bisphenols in plastics. Microplastics accumulate in the environment, raising concerns about bioaccumulation and transfer through the food chain. Addressing these impacts requires reducing plastic consumption, improving recycling infrastructure, developing alternative materials, and implementing policies to promote sustainable practices. Case studies from San Francisco and Taiwan demonstrate successful waste management strategies. Future directions include developing innovative recycling technologies, promoting circular economy principles, and enhancing public awareness. The review highlights the need for collective action to mitigate the environmental and health impacts of plastic pollution.