Photo by Brian Yurasits on Unsplash
Plastic pollution has permeated every corner of the globe, so much so that plastics have entered the fossil record. The production of plastics has more than doubled since the beginning of the millennium, accounting for 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. More than 127 countries already have rules on single-use plastics, but the urgency to curb this crisis has led to the initiation of negotiations for a legally binding international treaty. The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) is currently convening in Busan, South Korea to finalise the Global Plastics Treaty and chart a course towards a more sustainable future.
While delegates are still hammering out the details of the treaty, several key provisions are expected to form its backbone. The treaty will likely include measures to reduce the production of virgin plastics (pure plastics from petroleum), particularly single-use plastic. It may also underscore the importance of efficient recycling and waste management, with an emphasis on improving collection, sorting, and processing infrastructure, as well as investing in recycling technologies. This provision will hold producers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products. It will also encourage them to minimise waste and maximise recycling. The treaty will foster international cooperation to address plastic pollution, particularly in developing countries. This could include sharing best practices, technology transfer, and financial support.
The EU and Plastics
The EU Commission is also participating in the negotiations. Their position is clear: the negative effects of plastic production and pollution must be addressed at the source. Current plastic production rates are unsustainable, and countries must find long-lasting solutions to improve the circularity of the plastics industry. The Commission is also pushing for rules on eliminating certain chemicals in plastics and phasing out products such as certain single-use plastics. The EU’s Directive on Single Use Plastics applies different measures to different products aimed at reducing consumption, raising awareness, and promoting sustainable alternatives. The EU also has rules and regulations to address marine pollution and packaging waste. These are aimed at reducing plastic waste and setting targets to improve recycling.
The Treaty's Potential
If delegates in Busan can reach an agreement, the International Plastics Treaty could have a profound impact. By curbing the production of virgin plastics, the amount of plastic pollution entering the environment will decrease. Enhanced recycling and waste management systems will help divert plastic waste from landfills and oceans. The treaty can incentivise innovation in sustainable materials and packaging solutions, driving the development of circular economy models. International cooperation will also facilitate knowledge and resource sharing, which will further improve progress in addressing plastic pollution.
The International Plastics Treaty represents a critical juncture in the global effort to combat plastic pollution. The fate of the treaty depends on the collective will of nations to prioritise environmental sustainability over short-term economic gains.
As firm believers in the circular economy, Ghazan Global invests in companies working to reduce plastics pollution and promote the use of sustainable plastics without the use of fossil fuels.
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