The current state of plastic recycling is alarming, with only 5% of plastic being recycled into new products. This is due to the high cost of collection and sorting, the inability to process different types of plastic together, and the degradation of plastic after one or two uses. The oil and gas industry's promise to recycle all plastic by 2040 lacks a clear plan. It is crucial to shift towards systems of reuse and refill, and to reduce plastic production. A tax on plastic production could fund recycling initiatives, creating a market for plastic waste and reducing the need for new plastic. This would also incentivize corporations to reduce their plastic output. The implementation of such a tax is a necessary step towards a sustainable future.