The United States is participating in global talks to address plastic pollution, marking a rare instance of international engagement under President Donald Trump’s leadership. The goal is to complete a landmark treaty over 10 days that aims to end the spiraling plastic pollution crisis.
About 3,700 people from 184 countries and more than 600 organizations are taking part in the negotiations. The US position focuses on improving waste collection and management, product design, recycling, and reuse. Industry leaders praise this approach, while environmentalists criticize it as too weak.
The treaty’s prospects are uncertain, with the US aiming to finalize a text that all countries will support. However, some nations oppose cutting plastic production, citing concerns over its impact on greenhouse gas emissions and economic interests. The international Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development estimates that 22 million tons of plastic waste will leak into the environment this year, which could increase to 30 million tons annually by 2040.
The US does not support global production caps or bans on certain plastic products, citing concerns over unintended consequences and a lack of universal approach. Industry leaders argue that such measures could raise costs and have unforeseen effects. Environmental groups, on the other hand, see this as a missed opportunity to address a pressing global problem.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/plastic-pollution-treaty-negotiations-united-nations-geneva-4bef60c192fe004d238157a4faa7bbfb