Nations Debate Global Plastic Pollution Treaty

Negotiations for a global treaty to curb plastic pollution are nearing conclusion in Busan, South Korea, with significant divisions among nations over whether to impose limits on plastic production. Over 100 countries advocate for production caps, citing the urgent need to address the escalating plastic crisis, while a coalition of oil-producing nations resists such measures, preferring a focus on waste management. The current plastic production exceeds 400 million tons annually and could increase by 70% by 2040 without intervention. The final draft of the treaty is expected to be released soon, with discussions continuing until a consensus can be reached. The outcome of these negotiations could establish one of the most significant environmental agreements since the Paris Agreement in 2015. Key players like the U.S., Canada, and several European nations are pushing for ambitious action, while countries like Saudi Arabia employ procedural tactics to stall progress.