Every day, we’re surrounded by plastic—it's in our homes, streets, and oceans. The global community has recognized the need for a change, and world leaders are coming together to finalize a groundbreaking treaty aimed at addressing plastic pollution. But reaching an agreement is proving to be more complicated than expected.
Why the World Needs a Global Plastics Treaty
Plastic pollution is not just about litter; it's a serious environmental, social justice and health threat. Most plastics are made from fossil fuels, and the production process contributes to climate change.
Paper from the Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research reveals that every increase in plastic production results in the same increase in plastic pollution. Another study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory warns that projected increases in plastic production could consume up to 26% of the world's remaining carbon budget.
That’s why in 2022, the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) launched negotiations to create a binding Global Plastics Treaty. The aim is to address plastic's full lifecycle—from production to disposal.
Key Priorities in the Treaty
The treaty negotiations focus on several crucial areas:
Reducing Plastic Production: Many countries and environmental groups are pushing for limits on how much plastic can be produced. The goal is to cap and then phase down plastic production, but not all countries agree.
Chemicals in Plastic: Plastics contain thousands of harmful chemicals, some of which do not break down during any form of recycling, making them dangerous for both people and the environment. The treaty aims to ban or limit these toxic substances.
Product Design and Waste Management: Improving how plastic products are designed can make them easier to recycle and reduce the amount of waste they generate. More effective waste management is another goal.
Microplastics: Tiny plastic particles, known as micro or nano plastics, have been found in the ocean, soil, food and water, and every part of our bodies. Tackling this invisible form of pollution is another priority for the treaty.
Support for Affected Communities:
Indigenous communities and those living near plastic production sites are often hit hardest by pollution. For example, Canada’s Aamjiwnaang First Nation (image above) suffers health issues due to emissions from nearby plastic facilities. The treaty seeks to support these communities and ensure a "Just Transition" for workers in industries dependent on plastic.
Challenges and Industry Opposition
Countries like France and Denmark have been champions of reducing plastic production, but they face opposition from nations with large petrochemical industries, like Saudi Arabia.
At the most recent meeting in Ottawa, nearly 200 representatives from the fossil fuel and chemical industries showed up to lobby against measures that would limit plastic production.
The debate has split countries into those pushing for stronger measures and those opposing restrictions on production. Civil society groups and environmental advocates are working hard to ensure that the treaty includes strict production limits.
Meanwhile, over 30 countries have signed the "Bridge to Busan" declaration, which calls for a strong commitment to cutting plastic production. Getting more countries on board is an urgent priority.
What’s Next?
The final round of negotiations is set for Busan, Korea, starting end of November.
This will be the last chance to shape the treaty before it becomes legally binding. The stakes are high—if countries can agree on strong measures, it could drastically reduce the world’s plastic footprint and protect the environment for future generations.
However, disagreements remain, and if these issues aren't resolved, some fear that the treaty could be weakened or delayed.
On the other hand, there’s hope that countries committed to change will push through a strong agreement, even if it means some nations don’t sign on immediately.
Why It Matters
This treaty has been compared to the Paris Climate Agreement because of its potential to reshape industries and protect the planet. But unlike climate change, plastic pollution is something we all see and interact with daily.
The food we buy, the packaging we throw away—all of it contributes to the growing problem. That’s why it’s crucial to stay informed and support global efforts to reduce plastic pollution.
In the end, this treaty isn’t just about governments—it’s about all of us. By pushing for change, we can ensure a healthier, plastic-free future.
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For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk
Contact details for UK delegates here
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Images
GPT INC2 Greenpeace projection - Image by Greenpeace Tokyo (ST ref: 1324)
Canada’s Aamjiwnaang First Nation Intervention - Image by CIEL (ST ref: 1325)
Coca Cola Bottle Waste - Image by John Cameron (ST ref: 1224)
Girl holding plastic recycling - Image by Wayhomestudio (ST ref: 1230)