The collapse of UN talks on a binding agreement to tackle plastic pollution has left many states and campaigners disappointed. Despite widespread determination to act, petrostates like the US have obstructed progress.
Plastics are an integral part of our lives, with microplastics found in placentas, blood, and breast milk. Studies link exposure to health effects, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and cancer. Yet plastic production is expected to triple, exceeding 1 billion tonnes a year, driven by petrostates seeking to maintain demand.
The failure of talks was largely due to disagreements over the scope of action. Petrol states like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait insisted that waste management should be prioritized, while the US advocated for voluntary measures only. This led to a consensus decision being blocked by minority delegations from “high ambition” states, including those in the EU, Britain, Canada, and much of the global south.
Despite this setback, campaigners remain hopeful. China, as the world’s largest plastic producer, could play a crucial role in driving change. Countries can also take unilateral action to reduce plastic usage. Colombia has already made significant strides.
Industry lobbyists may have been present in large numbers, but it demonstrates that plastics producers are aware of the need for change and recognize its growing momentum. The fight against plastic pollution is far from over, and action must be taken unilaterally and collectively to address this critical environmental issue.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/aug/15/the-guardian-view-on-the-collapse-of-environmental-talks-petrostates-blocked-a-global-plastics-deal-but-we-must-not-despair