Global Leaders Fall Short in Striving for Plastic Pollution Treaty

A pivotal UN conference aimed at drafting a treaty to combat plastic pollution concluded in Busan without reaching an agreement, highlighting stark divisions among nations on key issues such as production limits and chemical regulations.

In a disappointing turn of events, diplomats at the United Nations conference in Busan, South Korea, wrapped up talks on what would have been the world’s inaugural treaty addressing plastic pollution without achieving consensus on critical issues. As negotiations faltered, delegates announced intentions to gather again in the coming months to further discuss potential frameworks.

The stakes are high, with the world generating approximately 500 million tons of plastic annually, more than double the production rate from two decades ago. At what was anticipated to be the final discussion round, significant gaps in agreement persisted, particularly surrounding whether the treaty should impose restrictions on plastic production levels.

Countries that are among the leading petroleum producers opposed any limits on production, as a sizable portion of global plastic is derived from petroleum sources. These representatives argued for a focus on enhancing recycling efforts and waste management practices instead.

Juliet Kabera, a delegate from Rwanda who has advocated for a comprehensive treaty, criticized the lack of support from several nations for measures essential to initiate substantial change. “Rwanda cannot accept a toothless treaty,” she stated.

Saudi Arabia, along with Russia and other oil-rich nations, maintained that the emphasis should remain on pollution rather than the production of plastics. “If we address plastic pollution, there should be no problem with producing plastics,” asserted Abdulrahman Al Gwaiz, a delegate from Saudi Arabia.

Activist groups urged the assembly to pursue a bold, legally-binding agreement. Earlier in the week, demonstrators in Busan showcased a model of a sperm whale filled with plastic debris, bearing messages such as “Courage not compromise,” as they rallied for decisive action.

As the conference adjourned without any scheduled follow-up discussions, the global call for a treaty to mitigate plastic waste continues, underscoring the urgent need for a united international response.