Global Delegates Convene in South Korea for Plastics Treaty Talks

Delegates from 175 countries have gathered in Busan, South Korea, for the fifth round of UN negotiations aimed at drafting a binding international treaty to combat plastic pollution. The talks are marked by significant divisions, particularly between petrochemical-producing nations like Saudi Arabia and China, who oppose production caps, and countries advocating for stricter measures. Activists warn that without binding commitments, the treaty may prove ineffective, as plastic pollution is projected to double in the next 20 years without intervention. The United States recently expressed support for production caps, aligning with the High Ambition Coalition, but uncertainty remains regarding its commitment under a potential new administration. Experts emphasize the urgency of immediate action to address plastic waste, with a focus on recycling and waste management. The outcome of these talks could set the course for global plastic regulation, with a legally binding treaty anticipated by the end of 2024.