Discussions Concerning the 'International Plastics Agreement'

The United Nations' Summit on the Global Treaty on Plastics (INC-5.2) is currently underway, with the deadline for negotiations fast approaching on August 14. The treaty, aimed at addressing the global plastic pollution crisis, is of utmost importance, as an estimated 30,000 tons of plastic enter the oceans every day.

The majority of countries, including small island states, many African, Asian, Latin American, and European nations, are urging for a treaty that addresses the entire plastic lifecycle and reduces production based on planetary boundaries. Notable supporters include the EU and the United Kingdom.

However, the road to a successful treaty has not been without hurdles. Historically, oil-producing countries have used consensus to undermine and sabotage agreements, rather than build them. This has been a challenge in previous attempts to conclude the Treaty.

Despite this, the ambitious majority is determined to forge their own path. They can use procedural mechanisms like voting or forming a majority coalition to adopt the agreement. The treaty should have the central function of protecting human health, wildlife, and the environment.

Professor Dr. Stefan Krause of the University of Birmingham has urged governments and negotiators to adopt a legally binding treaty based on science. He emphasizes the need to apply the precautionary principle to minimize future damage from plastic pollution.

The treaty should include global bans on the most harmful plastic products and chemicals, global product design requirements for a non-toxic circular economy, financial and technical support for developing countries, and mechanisms to strengthen and adapt the treaty over time.

Environmentalists are urging for greater ambition to prevent a weak agreement at the summit. They advocate for binding global targets and measurable milestones, ensuring fair participation of affected communities and civil society, and pushing for a decision-making process that might include majority voting rather than strict consensus to overcome deadlocks.

Microplastics (MnP) and plastic additives are linked to biological effects such as endocrine disruption, hormonal cancers (like breast and testicular), reproductive problems and infertility, and chronic respiratory conditions. A strong and effective consensus-based treaty is crucial to combat these harmful impacts.

However, a small minority of countries continue to block significant progress. It's time to call for accelerated negotiations and maintain an open and constructive dialogue to achieve an effective treaty in the coming years. The commitment to achieve a legally binding global treaty on single-use plastics and plastic waste is being called for, as the plastic pollution crisis requires coordinated and ambitious action. The ambitious majority has the support and tools to build a treaty that protects people now and in the future, and they must now act.