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Enough plastic is thrown away each year to circle the earth four times. And if we recycled just one ton of that plastic, we could save the equivalent of 1,000-2,000 gallons of gasoline. Nearly 190 countries are convening in Busan, South Korea this week to forge a legally binding treaty to end this global crisis. Can this unprecedented collaboration be the turning point in our fight against plastic pollution? The fifth and final round of negotiations for a United Nations Global Plastics Treaty is underway, with the aim of creating a unified global framework to tackle plastic pollution. With plastic production expected to triple by 2060, the stakes couldn't be higher. A legally binding global treaty could be monumental in driving the necessary changes at the scale and speed we need. A cohesive global framework can ensure consistency and reduce complexity for businesses operating across borders, driving innovation and investment in sustainable packaging. This treaty is particularly crucial because voluntary initiatives and fragmented regulations have proven insufficient in addressing the plastic crisis. A global treaty can provide a level playing field, ensuring that all stakeholders contribute to the solution. A few motivating stats: ?? Enough plastic is thrown away each year to circle the earth four times. ?? Recycling one ton of plastic saves the equivalent of 1,000–2,000 gallons of gasoline. ?? Plastic pollution is projected to double by 2060, with 44 million tonnes of plastic leaking into the environment per year. (Source: OECD) ?? 60% of all plastic recycled globally is collected by waste pickers. ?? 240+ companies are calling for mandatory design for recycling requirements coupled with targets for scaling systems and infrastructure. The treaty aims to address the full lifecycle of plastic, from production and consumption to waste management. Key elements include: ?? Reduce virgin plastic production: Phase out problematic and single-use plastics. ?? Improve product design: Ensure all plastics are reusable and recyclable. ?? Establish EPR: Hold producers responsible for plastic waste management. ?? Protect waste pickers: Safeguard their livelihoods and human rights. While challenges remain, the commitment of these nations offers a beacon of hope. However, it's important to acknowledge that the US has recently backtracked on its support for capping plastic production, opting instead for a "flexible" approach with voluntary targets. This shift in stance highlights the ongoing tension between ambitious goals and the influence of powerful industry lobbies. Despite these challenges, the global momentum towards a legally binding treaty remains strong. The active participation of various stakeholders, including businesses, NGOs, and governments, underscores the collective recognition of the urgent need to address plastic pollution. All eyes on ??! (art by some Env NGOs in Busan) #GlobalPlasticsTreaty #Circularity #Sustainability #EPR