Global Leaders Gather in Busan to Finalize Historic Plastic Pollution Treaty
Oru Leonard
In a crucial step towards tackling the world’s plastic pollution crisis, the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) kicked off in Busan, South Korea, on November 25, 2024. The meeting brings together over 3,800 participants from more than 170 countries and 600 observer organizations to finalize a historic global treaty on plastic pollution.
The treaty aims to address the devastating impact of plastic waste on the environment, human health, and the economy. According to the United Nations, plastic production has resulted in an exponential increase in plastic waste, with devastating consequences for future generations.
“The moment of truth is here to end plastic pollution,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). “We have a historic moment to end the world’s plastic pollution crisis and protect our environment, our health, and our future”.
The INC-5 meeting follows four earlier rounds of negotiations and is expected to conclude with the finalization of the treaty text by December 1, 2024. The European Union has emphasized the need for a strong and ambitious treaty that addresses the root causes of plastic pollution, including the reduction of plastic production.
As the negotiations unfold, civil society groups and activists are urging world leaders to take bold action to address the plastic pollution crisis. “The success of these negotiations will directly shape the world we live in – now and in the future,” said Jyoti Mathur-Filipp, Executive Secretary of the INC.
The outcome of the INC-5 meeting will have far-reaching implications for the future of our planet. As the world watches, global leaders have a unique opportunity to make history and create a safer, more sustainable future for all.
(UNEP Media)
Photo Credit: Dreamstime
