As negotiations near their end in Busan, South Korea, world leaders focus on addressing the escalating global crisis of plastic pollution.
Over the past three decades, plastic usage has increased fourfold, highlighting its pervasive presence in daily life. Each day, the equivalent of 2,000 garbage trucks of plastic find their way into oceans, rivers, and lakes, as reported by the United Nations. In an unprecedented move, a majority of nations have consented to creating the first international, legally binding agreement on plastic pollution to be finalized by 2024.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development projects that global plastic production will reach 736 million tons by 2040. With more than 100 countries backing its initiative, Panama has emerged as a key player in addressing the rampant increase in plastic production through this treaty. Juan Carlos Monterrey, leading Panama’s delegation, emphasized the importance of addressing production issues within the treaty. He argued, ‘If we don’t have production in this treaty, the problem is not going to be fixed.’
The current statistics are stark: less than 10% of plastics are recycled. A significant portion ends up in landfills, pollutes ecosystems, or is incinerated. During the talks, the International Indigenous Peoples Forum on Plastics stressed the necessity of safeguarding indigenous rights and ensuring a universal right to a healthy environment. Juan Mancias of the Carrizo/Comecrudo Nation articulated the connection to nature by recalling a time 500 years ago with ‘clean water, clean air and no plastics.’
Plastics used in packaging, comprising around 40% of total plastic usage, are a major concern. This includes single-use items like water bottles and straws, which frequently contribute to environmental pollution. U.N. Environment Program Executive Director Inger Andersen urged negotiators to identify items that could be eliminated or replaced with alternatives, emphasizing the need for consensus on this issue.
China stands out as the leading exporter of plastic products, followed by Germany and the United States. Together, these countries account for one-third of the global trade in plastics. This dominance underscores the need for comprehensive international cooperation to effectively manage plastic pollution.
As the talks draw to a close, the hope is that this global treaty will not only curtail plastic production but also foster sustainable alternatives, reflecting a collective commitment to preserving the environment for future generations.
Source: APNews
