“Global Leaders Gather in Busan to Tackle Plastic Pollution Crisis at Its Source”

Delegates from over 175 countries have gathered in Busan, South Korea, for a crucial environmental summit aimed at addressing the global crisis of plastic pollution. This summit is considered the most significant environmental deal since the Paris Agreement, with the goal of creating a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty to tackle the issue at its source.

Despite the historic commitment made by world leaders two years ago to end plastic pollution across its lifecycle, including production, design, and disposal, progress has been slow due to resistance from a small number of fossil fuel-rich countries. These countries have been pushing to delay progress and weaken the ambition of the treaty, making the negotiations in Busan critical for the future of the planet.

One of the key points of contention among delegates is whether the treaty should regulate plastic production. Activists and civil society groups have been advocating for strong measures to reduce plastic production, as they believe it is essential to address the root cause of the problem. The production of plastic not only contributes to environmental pollution but also directly impacts human health and contributes to planetary warming.

Campaigners are calling for mandatory targets to cap and reduce virgin plastic production, eliminate single-use plastics, and ban toxic chemicals in all plastic products. They also emphasize the importance of scaling up non-toxic reuse and refill solutions to accelerate the transition away from single-use plastics.

However, major fossil fuel-producing countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Iran, along with industry lobbyists, are pushing to exclude plastic production from the treaty altogether. They see plastics as a way to increase demand for their products while efforts are being made to reduce demand in the energy sector.

In addition to addressing plastic production, environmentalists are advocating for a just transition for workers and communities along the plastics supply chain. This includes recognizing waste pickers and supporting frontline communities that are disproportionately affected by the toxic impacts of plastic production and disposal.

As the negotiations continue in Busan, the outcome will depend on whether high-ambition countries are willing to follow through on their commitments to address the global plastic crisis. Civil society is unwavering in calling for an ambitious, legally binding treaty that will make a real impact on reducing plastic pollution worldwide.