The urgent issue of plastic pollution is at the forefront of international discussions, as delegates from around 100 countries convened in Geneva from August 5 to August 14, 2023. Their primary goal is to develop a global treaty aimed at significantly reducing plastic production, with an emphasis on legally binding targets. Richard Thompson, a marine biology expert from the University of Plymouth, stresses that tackling the plastic crisis requires more than just improving waste management practices. Systemic changes must occur throughout the entire supply chain to minimize the production of non-essential plastics, highlighting that this issue impacts ecosystems and human health worldwide.
Notably, the treaty negotiations have sparked tensions among oil and gas exporting nations, such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Russia, who, with China’s support, advocate for a more limited focus on waste management and recycling. Thompson points out that these countries are concerned about the financial ramifications of a comprehensive treaty, especially those that heavily rely on oil and gas, as these materials are major contributors to plastic production. In contrast, the European Commission argues for a broader approach, encompassing the entire lifecycle of plastics, from production to disposal. This includes a phased ban on harmful plastics, aiming to present a united front against the pervasive issue of plastic waste.
The scale of the plastic pollution crisis is staggering, with approximately 460 million tonnes of plastic produced annually. Shockingly, 81% of these products become waste within a year, and a mere 9% of that waste is recycled. More than 20% are abandoned in natural environments, and nearly half is sent to landfill. This alarming statistic underscores the urgency for a robust and ambitious treaty. Thompson, speaking from his extensive experience with microplastics, advocates for an agreement that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastics and regulates the thousands of chemicals used in their production, some of which pose significant health risks.
To forge a successful treaty, Thompson suggests specific sustainability guidelines for plastic design, focusing on reusability, durability, and recyclability. He emphasizes the necessity for clear labeling to enable consumers to identify sustainable products easily. Additionally, securing financial support is crucial, ensuring that less affluent nations are equipped to adhere to the new standards established by the treaty. Achieving this would help foster equitable progress in the global fight against plastic pollution.
As time runs short, the urgency of reaching an agreement intensifies. The session in Geneva is part of an ongoing negotiation process that began in March 2022 when 175 countries committed to creating a legally binding treaty addressing plastic pollution. With negotiations involving 176 UN member states, NGOs, scientists, and industry representatives, there is growing pressure to reach a consensus. However, despite earlier expectations that the process could culminate in Busan in late 2024, the fifth round of talks ended without a resolution, revealing the complexities and challenges still at play.
In conclusion, the Geneva meetings mark an important step in the global effort to combat plastic pollution. While there is broad recognition of the issue’s severity and the need for immediate action, divergent perspectives among nations present hurdles to achieving a comprehensive treaty. The focus on the entire lifecycle of plastics, the introduction of sustainable design criteria, and financial considerations are pivotal to moving forward. With the clock ticking, the outcomes of these negotiations could significantly reshape policies and practices around plastic production and waste management, influencing future generations’ health and ecosystems worldwide.
