Negotiators working on a global treaty to address plastic pollution failed to reach an agreement that limits plastic production or addresses toxic chemicals used in plastic products. The draft, which was unveiled Wednesday, is largely opposed by oil and gas-producing nations and the plastics industry, who want a focus on better waste management and reuse instead of production caps.
Countries such as Canada, Mexico, Chile, and Norway expressed support for the draft, while Colombia’s delegation called it “unacceptable” due to its lack of ambition and global obligations. The United States also raised concerns over six articles that cross red lines, but did not specify what they were. India’s delegation saw the draft as a “good enough starting point.”
The treaty aims to reduce problematic plastic products entering the environment, promote redesign of plastic products for recycling and reuse, and improve waste management. However, the lack of agreement on production limits has raised concerns that the treaty may not be effective in addressing the root causes of plastic pollution.
With little time left for negotiations, it remains to be seen whether a revised draft can address the criticisms and produce a legally-binding instrument.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/plastic-pollution-treaty-negotiations-united-nations-geneva-65e7fd917d893e8541b9ba278db4d944