#Global Plastics Treaty News
Plastic waste will soar to unprecedented levels without action, as UN plastics treaty remains elusive.
The island in the Central Visayas region shows that zero waste strategies can work, but experts warn its success won’t last without caps on plastic production.
Comments made by materials scientist Chris DeArmitt that plastics are not toxic and their impact on ecosystems has been overstated became the centre of debate at the ReThink sustainability conference. An NGO appealed to DeArmitt's audience to carefully review the science.
The shift from a global approach to national programmes means reducing plastics at source becomes optional, and presents new challenges for China.
#Global Plastics Treaty Opinion
The treaty negotiations risk repeatedly stalling unless the decision-making process is overhauled, argues INC-5 observer Terese Teoh.
Restricting primary or virgin plastic production would constrain economic growth and industrialisation, India argued at the recent plastic treaty talks. But its opposition to production caps may turn out to be more damaging than beneficial.
The UN should hold a vote in Geneva if countries try to water down plastic pollution deal.
Addressing the global crisis of maritime plastic pollution will require mobilising investment and support to reduce the production of single-use plastics, increasing the lifespan of plastic objects and promoting reuse and reparability.
#Global Plastics Treaty Podcasts
The head of waste management non-profit Ocean Recovery Alliance tells the EB Podcast that recycled content mandates will drive the circular economy better than caps on virgin plastic production. Brands should be pressured more than petrochemical producers to phase out unnecessary plastics, he says.
#Global Plastics Treaty Press Releases
United Nations Environment Programme
Resumed fifth session of negotiations on a global plastic pollution treaty opens in Geneva
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
Answering ten pressing questions about plastic pollution
Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA)
GAIA calls for greater accountability, inclusiveness, transparency in Plastics Treaty Process
UN Environment Programme (UNEP)
World must pull together to build a fairer, more sustainable planet: UNEP annual report
