Plastic is a nonbiodegradable synthetic substance. It poses a significant threat owing to its wide usage and harmful consequences upon degradation. As it breaks down, harmful substances are released, leading to pollution and adversely affecting the environment, humans, and wildlife. The non-decomposing nature of plastic, which requires high-energy ultraviolet light for breakdown, causes a concerning increase in plastic waste (PW) in land and oceans. Yearly, 380 million tons of plastic are produced globally, contributing to environmental pollutants. This problem is particularly severe in developing countries. To address the associated pollutants, it is essential to understand plastic, PW, its fate, and biodegradation. In this chapter, numerous synthetic plastics, their properties, significance, and waste quantification are investigated, and topics, such as bioplastics, micro- and nanoplastics, pollution crises, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), dioxins, toxicity, potential substitutes, and waste management (WM) efficacy are explored. Recycling technologies and case studies are also discussed in this chapter, rendering insights for better options, management principles, regulations, and policies that aim to address the environmental impact of PW.