Negotiations to establish the world’s first legally binding treaty on plastic pollution collapsed after a week of intense discussions in Busan, South Korea. Delegates from 175 nations failed to reach a consensus on critical issues, including reducing global plastic production, addressing harmful chemicals in plastics, and securing funding for the transition away from plastic dependency.
The breakdown of talks marks a significant setback in global efforts to combat the growing crisis of plastic waste. Despite progress made since the treaty's inception in March 2022, deep divisions among nations—particularly between plastic-producing countries and those most affected by pollution—have hindered meaningful agreement.
Key Points of Contention
Plastic Production and Design RequirementsOver 100 countries pushed for the treaty to include binding limits on plastic production, which is projected to rise by 70% by 2040 without policy intervention. However, major oil- and gas-producing nations, including Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, opposed measures that would restrict production, emphasizing that the treaty should target pollution rather than the materials themselves.
Toxic ChemicalsProposals to regulate the 16,000 chemicals used in plastic production were a major sticking point. Environmental groups stress that many of these chemicals pose significant health risks, contributing to rising rates of fertility issues, cancers, and developmental disorders.
Funding the TransitionDeveloping countries demanded a clear financial framework to support the transition away from plastic, arguing that without funding, ambitious goals would be unattainable.
Decision-Making ProcessThe requirement for unanimous consensus further complicated negotiations. Attempts to introduce a voting mechanism for deadlocked issues were blocked by countries like India, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, who argued that consensus was essential for an inclusive treaty.
Global Reaction
Environmental advocates expressed outrage at the failure of the talks. Sian Sutherland, co-founder of A Plastic Planet, criticized the influence of the plastics and fossil fuel industries, accusing them of undermining the negotiations through misinformation campaigns and lobbying.
“We should be outraged that this one opportunity for a legally binding treaty that protects us has failed," she said. "Plastic pollution is not just an environmental crisis; it’s a health crisis.”
In contrast, representatives of the plastics industry, such as the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA), called for patience, describing the timeline for such a treaty as "incredibly ambitious."
The Stakes: Why a Treaty Matters
Global plastic production has surged from 2 million tonnes in 1950 to nearly 460 million tonnes annually. If unchecked, plastic pollution could devastate ecosystems, exacerbate climate change, and impose severe health risks on humans and wildlife.
Environmental groups emphasize that without bold action, the world risks perpetuating a system where communities in developing nations bear the brunt of plastic waste, often living near burning dumpsites or polluted waterways.
What’s Next?
While the talks have been suspended, negotiators agreed to resume discussions in 2025, although no date has been set. The delay prolongs uncertainty for countries eager to implement robust measures and for industries seeking clarity on future regulations.
Rwanda and Panama, among other nations, vowed to return to negotiations with renewed determination. “The treaty must be ambitious and fit for purpose,” said Rwanda’s lead negotiator, Juliet Kabera.
Source: Euronews
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