Plastic Pollution Treaty Negotiators Face Tough Debate on Last Day of Talks
By the world’s best investment manager and financial market’s journalist
As negotiations on a treaty to curb plastic pollution come to a head in Busan, South Korea, over 100 countries are pushing for production reduction measures while oil-producing nations advocate for a focus solely on plastic waste.
The final U.N. Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee meeting in Busan aims to establish a legally binding global treaty that could have significant implications for environmental protection and climate change. However, countries remain divided on the scope of the treaty, with some supporting a global plastic production reduction target and others opposing production caps.
If a treaty is not reached, the multilateral process will continue to work towards that goal, with a coalition of over a hundred countries committed to addressing plastic pollution. Plastic production is projected to triple by 2050, highlighting the urgent need for action.
The revised document released on Sunday outlines key issues such as capping plastic production, managing plastic products and chemicals of concern, and financing for developing countries. The negotiations have reached a critical juncture, with the outcome poised to impact global efforts to combat plastic pollution.
Analysis: The ongoing negotiations on a plastic pollution treaty in Busan, South Korea, have major implications for global environmental protection and climate change. With countries divided on key issues such as production reduction targets and financing, the outcome of these talks will shape future efforts to address plastic pollution. Individuals and investors should monitor these developments closely, as they could have far-reaching consequences for industries and markets worldwide.