Report on the Global Hazardous Waste Bag Market: An SDG-Aligned Analysis

Executive Summary

The Global Hazardous Waste Bag Market is integral to achieving several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those concerning environmental protection and public health. The market is projected to expand from USD 1006.0 Million in 2024 to USD 1623.1 Million by 2034, registering a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.9%. This growth is propelled by the global imperative to manage hazardous materials safely, directly supporting SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by ensuring the environmentally sound management of chemical and other wastes.

The market provides essential tools for industries such as healthcare, chemicals, and manufacturing to mitigate their environmental and health impacts. The enforcement of stringent regulations, aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), mandates the use of specialized containment solutions to prevent contamination and protect communities. As industrial output increases, in line with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), the corresponding rise in hazardous waste generation necessitates advanced and reliable disposal systems. The reported 350 million tons of global hazardous waste generated in 2023 underscores the critical role of this market in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Key Takeaways

• Market Growth: The market is forecast to reach USD 1623.1 million by 2034, driven by regulatory pressures and industrial growth aligned with global sustainability targets.
• Material Dominance: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) bags lead the market, their durability and chemical resistance being critical for achieving SDG 12.4 (environmentally sound management of wastes).
• Capacity Preference: Large (30-55 gallons) bags are the dominant segment, reflecting industrial needs for efficient waste consolidation, supporting operational aspects of SDG 9.
• Closure Standard: Tie closures are preferred for their reliability in preventing leakage, a fundamental requirement for protecting public health (SDG 3) and ecosystems (SDG 14 & 15).
• Application Focus: Industrial waste management is the largest application, highlighting the challenge of decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation as per SDG 8 and SDG 12.
• Regional Leadership: North America holds a 30.1% market share, valued at USD 318.0 million, due to its robust regulatory infrastructure that enforces stringent environmental and health standards.

Market Segmentation Analysis

By Material Type

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) bags dominated the market in 2024. Their superior chemical resistance and durability are essential for the safe containment of hazardous substances, directly contributing to the objectives of SDG 12 by preventing the release of pollutants into the environment. Other materials like Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and Polypropylene (PP) serve specific applications, offering a balance of flexibility, cost, and thermal stability, thereby providing tailored solutions for diverse waste streams.

By Capacity

In 2024, the Large (30-55 gallons) capacity segment held the largest market share. This size offers an optimal balance for industrial and large healthcare facilities, promoting efficient collection and transportation, which is vital for sustainable urban infrastructure under SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Smaller bags are crucial in laboratory and pharmaceutical settings for precise waste segregation, a practice that enhances safety and supports SDG 3.

By Closure Type

Tie closures led the market in 2024 due to their proven reliability and cost-effectiveness in securing hazardous contents. Effective closure systems are paramount to preventing spills and contamination during handling and transport, thereby protecting sanitation systems (SDG 6) and terrestrial ecosystems (SDG 15). Adhesive and zipper closures offer advanced features like tamper evidence and reusability for specialized applications, reflecting innovation in support of safety standards.

By Application

The Industrial Waste segment was dominant in 2024, driven by manufacturing output and the need to comply with environmental regulations. Managing this waste stream is a core component of sustainable industrialization (SDG 9). The proper disposal of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Biohazard waste is of critical importance to SDG 3, as it prevents the spread of infectious diseases and protects healthcare workers and the public.

Key Market Segments

By Material Type

• High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Bags
• Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) Bags
• Polypropylene (PP) Bags
• Other

By Capacity

• Large (30-55 gallons)
• Small (Up to 10 gallons)
• Medium (10-30 gallons)
• Extra Large (55+ gallons)

By Closure Type

• Tie Closure
• Adhesive Closure
• Zipper Closure

By Application

• Industrial Waste
• Pharmaceutical Waste
• Medical Waste
• Radioactive Waste
• Chemical Waste
• Biohazard Waste
• Other

By End User

• Manufacturing and Industrial Facilities
• Waste Management Companies
• Laboratories
• Research Institutes
• Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
• Pharmaceutical Companies
• Other

Market Dynamics

Drivers

The primary driver for the market is the increasing stringency of regulations governing hazardous waste management. These governmental policies are direct mechanisms for achieving SDG 12.4, compelling industries to adopt compliant disposal solutions. Concurrently, growth in industrial, healthcare, and pharmaceutical sectors, while contributing to economic progress (SDG 8), generates higher volumes of hazardous waste, thereby fueling demand for safe containment solutions that uphold public health standards (SDG 3).

Restraints

The high cost of specialized hazardous waste bags can be a significant restraint, particularly for smaller enterprises and in developing economies. This financial barrier can impede the widespread adoption of best practices, hindering progress towards universal achievement of SDG 12. Furthermore, inadequate waste management infrastructure in some regions poses a fundamental challenge to implementing effective disposal systems, limiting the market and delaying progress on SDG 9 and SDG 11.

Opportunities

Significant opportunities exist in expanding waste management services into developing regions, which allows for the establishment of modern, sustainable infrastructure aligned with SDG 9 and SDG 11. The growing demand for biodegradable and eco-friendly bags presents a major growth avenue, directly supporting SDG 12.5 (substantially reduce waste generation). Government initiatives and public-private partnerships, in line with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), are creating a favorable environment for investment in sustainable waste technologies.

Emerging Trends

The integration of smart technology, including sensors and AI, into waste management systems is a key trend. These innovations, central to SDG 9, enhance tracking, safety, and operational efficiency. A strong market shift towards sustainable materials and circular economy principles is evident, reflecting a collective push to achieve the targets of SDG 12 by minimizing environmental impact and promoting resource efficiency.

Regional Analysis

North America

North America dominated the market in 2024 with a 30.1% share, valued at USD 318.0 million. This leadership is a result of a mature regulatory environment that rigorously enforces standards related to SDG 3 and SDG 12, coupled with a highly industrialized economy and advanced healthcare system.

Europe

The European market is characterized by a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and circular economy models. Strict adherence to waste management protocols in pursuit of SDG 12 drives steady demand for high-quality, compliant hazardous waste bags.

Asia Pacific

As the fastest-growing region, Asia Pacific’s rapid industrialization (SDG 9) creates an urgent need for robust hazardous waste management solutions to prevent adverse health and environmental outcomes, making it a key growth market for solutions that support SDG 3, 11, and 12.

Middle East & Africa

Growth in this region is driven by industrial expansion and strengthening environmental regulations. Investment in healthcare and industrial infrastructure is increasing demand, though progress is contingent on developing more comprehensive waste management systems to meet SDG targets.

Latin America

The market in Latin America is experiencing moderate growth, supported by improving waste management practices and increasing industrial activity. A growing regional focus on sustainability is expected to positively influence the adoption of specialized hazardous waste bags.

Key Company Insights

Leading companies in the hazardous waste bag market are pivotal in driving progress toward global sustainability goals.

• Stericycle, Inc. and Daniels Health provide specialized solutions for healthcare waste, directly supporting the objectives of SDG 3.
• Clean Harbors, Inc., Veolia Environnement S.A., and Waste Management, Inc. offer comprehensive industrial and municipal waste services, providing the critical infrastructure and expertise needed to help industries comply with SDG 9 and SDG 12.

These key players are advancing the market through innovation in materials, services, and sustainable practices, aligning their corporate strategies with the broader 2030 Agenda.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Stericycle, Inc.
• Clean Harbors, Inc.
• Veolia Environnement S.A.
• Waste Management, Inc.
• SUEZ – Water Technologies & Solutions
• Republic Services, Inc.
• Safety-Kleen Systems, Inc.
• Heritage-Crystal Clean, LLC
• Daniels Health
• Sharps Compliance, Inc.
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
• U.S. Ecology, Inc.
• EnviroSolutions, Inc.
• Remondis SE & Co. KG
• GFL Environmental Inc.

Recent Developments

• June 2025: Veolia North America announced a $350 million investment to expand its hazardous waste treatment capabilities, a direct contribution to building resilient infrastructure (SDG 9) to support environmentally sound waste management (SDG 12).
• March 2025: The acquisition of Hazard Protection Systems by Aerial signifies a strategic consolidation to enhance industrial safety solutions, strengthening capabilities to meet stringent regulatory and sustainability demands.
• March 2024: Blue Planet Environmental Solutions’ acquisition of Vac-Tech Engineering demonstrates a commitment to advancing the circular economy and sustainable waste management, aligning with the principles of SDG 12.

Report Scope

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Hazardous Waste Bag Market Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The article on the Global Hazardous Waste Bag Market addresses several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its focus on the management, containment, and disposal of hazardous materials generated by various industries. The core issues of environmental protection, public health, industrial responsibility, and technological innovation are directly linked to the following SDGs:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: The article emphasizes the safe management of waste that is “toxic, flammable, or infectious,” including “medical waste,” “pharmaceutical waste,” and “biohazard waste.” Proper containment using specialized bags is crucial to prevent human exposure and reduce illnesses and deaths from hazardous materials.
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: The text highlights the role of industrialization in generating hazardous waste and the corresponding need for innovation. It discusses “technological advancements,” “smart technology,” “AI and automation,” and investments in “advanced waste disposal systems” and “recycling facilities,” which align with building resilient infrastructure and promoting sustainable industrialization.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities: Effective waste management is a critical service for sustainable cities. The article mentions waste from “municipal sectors” and the need for robust infrastructure to handle waste generated in urbanized and industrial areas, thereby reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities.
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: This is the most central SDG to the article. The entire report is about achieving the “environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes.” It discusses the massive volume of hazardous waste generated (“350 million tons”), the need for proper disposal, and the shift towards sustainable practices like using “biodegradable” bags and adopting “circular economy models.”
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: The article points to the importance of collaboration in achieving waste management goals. It mentions “partnerships between manufacturers and healthcare providers” and corporate actions like acquisitions (“Aerial announced the acquisition of Hazard Protection Systems”) and investments (“Veolia North America… revealed plans to invest $350 million”) to strengthen waste management capabilities.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, several specific SDG targets can be identified:

1. Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Explanation: The article’s focus on the safe containment of “toxic,” “infectious,” “chemical,” “radioactive,” and “biohazard” waste directly supports this target. The use of specialized bags in healthcare, pharmaceutical, and industrial settings is a primary method to prevent contamination and protect human health.
2. Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable… and promote the adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes.
   • Explanation: The article discusses the market drivers, including “investments in advanced waste management technologies,” the “adoption of smart technology in waste management systems,” and the integration of “artificial intelligence (AI) and automation into hazardous waste tracking systems.” These points directly relate to upgrading industrial processes for sustainability.
3. Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Explanation: The report analyzes the market by end-users, including “Waste Management Companies” and services for “municipal sectors.” The growth of the hazardous waste bag market, especially in urbanized regions like North America and Europe, reflects an increased focus on managing waste to reduce the environmental footprint of cities.
4. Target 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle… and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.
   • Explanation: This target is the core theme of the article. The entire market for hazardous waste bags exists to facilitate the “environmentally sound management” of waste. The article explicitly mentions the need to handle waste from the “chemicals” and “manufacturing” industries to prevent leakage and environmental degradation.
5. Target 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse.
   • Explanation: The article points to emerging trends and growth factors that support this target, such as the “focus on circular economy models in waste disposal practices,” the expansion of “recycling facilities,” and the “increased adoption of biodegradable hazardous waste bags,” all of which contribute to reducing the net impact of waste.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article contains several explicit and implied indicators that can measure progress:

• Indicator for Target 12.4 (Hazardous waste generated and treated): The article provides a direct quantitative indicator by stating, “In 2023, the global hazardous waste generation amounted to 350 million tons.” Tracking this number over time would measure progress. The market size itself (projected to reach “USD 1623.1 million by 2034”) serves as a proxy indicator for the amount of waste being managed professionally.
• Indicator for Target 12.5 (National recycling rate): Progress towards waste reduction and recycling is implied through market trends. The mention of “expansion of… recycling facilities” and the “shift toward sustainable and green packaging” are qualitative indicators. The growth in the market segment for “biodegradable hazardous waste bags” could be a quantifiable indicator of progress.
• Indicator for Target 9.4 (CO2 emission per unit of value added): While not measuring CO2 directly, the article indicates progress towards sustainable industry through investment and innovation. The specific investment figure, “Veolia North America… to invest $350 million globally… to boost its hazardous waste treatment and disposal capabilities,” is a direct financial indicator of upgrading infrastructure. The adoption rate of “smart technology,” “AI,” and “automation” in waste management would be another key performance indicator.
• Indicator for Target 3.9 (Mortality rate attributed to unsafe water, unsafe sanitation and lack of hygiene): The article implies progress by tracking the source of waste. The breakdown of the market by application (“Industrial Waste,” “Pharmaceutical Waste,” “Medical Waste,” “Biohazard Waste”) indicates the scale of efforts to manage specific health risks. A growing market share for these segments suggests increased management of materials that could otherwise cause illness and death.

4. Summary Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: market.us