At the recent U.N. summit in Ottawa, 170 countries made strides toward an international treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution by 2025. But critics say it still doesn't go far enough.
Charles Pekow reports for Mongabay.
In short:
- For the first time, "ghost gear" pollution in oceans was discussed, proposing a global database to track such waste.
- Peru and Rwanda initiated a proposal to cut primary plastic polymer production by 40% within 15 years, though major industrial nations have not agreed.
- Intersessional committees will focus on treaty implementation and financing, bypassing discussions on reducing hazardous chemical use in plastics.
Key quote:
“We were disappointed to see the subject of reduction of plastic production was not one of the areas included as a mandate for intersessional work … Unless we address production, you’ll not fully be able to end plastic pollution.”
— KerriLynn Miller, manager for preventing ocean plastics at Pew Charitable Trusts
Why this matters:
Plastic pollution is a cross-border issue that affects the health of our oceans, the safety of our food supply, and global biodiversity. By aligning on standards and goals, countries can more effectively prevent plastics from entering the environment, thereby protecting human health and ecosystems.
