In a pivotal United Nations conference held in Busan, South Korea, representatives from various nations were unable to finalize an agreement on the world's first treaty aimed at addressing plastic pollution, leading to plans to continue negotiations in the upcoming months.
During what was anticipated to be the concluding sessions of the talks, significant disagreements surfaced over several key points, notably the contentious issue of whether to impose limitations on plastic production. Countries like Saudi Arabia and Russia, which are major oil producers and contributors to plastic production, opposed any regulations that would come in the way of plastic manufacturing. Instead, they advocated for a focus on enhancing recycling systems and waste management practices.
The call for a more stringent treaty was championed by nations such as Rwanda, whose representative, Juliet Kabera, emphasized that “a small number” of countries stood in the way of meaningful reform, insisting that Rwanda cannot endorse a "toothless treaty."
Moreover, the discussions on necessary actions to eliminate toxic chemicals found in plastics, as well as the financial responsibilities associated with the implementation of the treaty, have added to the existing divisions among the delegates.
Environmental organizations have expressed disappointment, urging consensus on a strong, legally binding agreement. Protestors rallied outside the conference venue, showcasing a model of a sperm whale filled with plastic waste and advocating for “Courage not compromise,” highlighting the urgent need for decisive action against plastic pollution.
As the conference reached its conclusion, organizers did not announce a timeline or location for the next round of discussions, leaving climate advocates hoping for a revitalized commitment to tackle this pressing global issue.
During what was anticipated to be the concluding sessions of the talks, significant disagreements surfaced over several key points, notably the contentious issue of whether to impose limitations on plastic production. Countries like Saudi Arabia and Russia, which are major oil producers and contributors to plastic production, opposed any regulations that would come in the way of plastic manufacturing. Instead, they advocated for a focus on enhancing recycling systems and waste management practices.
The call for a more stringent treaty was championed by nations such as Rwanda, whose representative, Juliet Kabera, emphasized that “a small number” of countries stood in the way of meaningful reform, insisting that Rwanda cannot endorse a "toothless treaty."
Moreover, the discussions on necessary actions to eliminate toxic chemicals found in plastics, as well as the financial responsibilities associated with the implementation of the treaty, have added to the existing divisions among the delegates.
Environmental organizations have expressed disappointment, urging consensus on a strong, legally binding agreement. Protestors rallied outside the conference venue, showcasing a model of a sperm whale filled with plastic waste and advocating for “Courage not compromise,” highlighting the urgent need for decisive action against plastic pollution.
As the conference reached its conclusion, organizers did not announce a timeline or location for the next round of discussions, leaving climate advocates hoping for a revitalized commitment to tackle this pressing global issue.
