‘Plastic Meets Politics’: Unpacking the Global Plastic Diplomacy, One Reusable Bag at a Time

I'm no stranger to the quintessential Asian experience of having that dedicated kitchen drawer filled with single-use plastic bags from the local pasar. These versatile bags have served many purposes, from kitchen waste carriers to impromptu gift wraps to even embarrassing school lunch carriers. Yet, in recent years, there's been a concerted effort to steer away from this plastic tide, opting for biodegradable alternatives to combat pollution, tackle climate change, and, of course, protect our marine friends, especially the majestic turtles.

In sync with this eco-conscious wave, my family (and I) have enthusiastically embraced the trend of using reusable bags. There's a friendly competition underway, with each member vying for the title of owning the biggest or most aesthetically pleasing reusable bag (spoiler alert: none have claimed the title). This shift prompts a lingering question - W?h?e?r?e? ?c?a?n? ?I? ?f?i?n?d? ?t?h?e? ?m?o?s?t? ?a?e?s?t?h?e?t?i?c? ?r?e?u?s?a?b?l?e? ?b?a?g??? Am I *actually* saving the planet??

The Global Plastic Diplomacy

The recently concluded United Nations Global Plastic Treaty saw discussion more heated than your neighbour's drama, yet not as scorching as the alarming rise in global temperatures. During the week-long gathering in Nairobi, Kenya, the 3rd Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3) on the treaty garnered over 500 proposals, reflecting the urgency of addressing plastic pollution, which amounts to a staggering 400 million tonnes annually.

Here is where it gets interesting: while stakeholders, including the plastics industry and oil-exporting nations like Russia and Saudi Arabia, advocated for a global deal that emphasises recycling and re-use, environmental advocates and certain governments were pushing for a reduction in plastic production, as less than 10% of plastic waste is currently recycled. This diplomatic tug-of-war sheds light on the spicy politics of vested country interests at the heart of the global plastic conundrum.?

The non-decision is undeniably influenced by countries' vested interests, given that the decision extends far beyond the realm of plastic itself. With billions of dollars in trade, numerous international diplomatic considerations, and the intricacies of various economies at stake, it is no wonder governments go to lengths to make sure the Zero Draft reflects the best for each of their (conflicting) agendas.

The Case of ‘Recycle’ & ‘Re-use’

Russia, as a major oil-exporting nation, has a significant stake in the plastics game. Their economy is intricately tied to oil revenue, and a substantial portion of this revenue comes from the production and export of petrochemicals, a key component in plastic manufacturing. Similarly, Saudi Arabia, another heavyweight in the oil industry, finds itself in a comparable position. The flourishing petrochemical sector contributes significantly to the Saudi economy. Emphasising recycling and reusing thus aligns with their economic interests, allowing them to maintain a robust market for their oil and petrochemical products.

The Case of ‘Reduce’

On the flip side, Canada, Kenya, the European Union and environmental advocates championing a reduction in plastic production are guided by a different set of priorities. The call for diminished plastic output stems from the undeniable environmental havoc wreaked by plastic pollution. They witnessed firsthand the adverse effects on ecosystems, marine life, and public health, and are pushing for a proactive approach that curtails the production of plastic at its source.

While the petrochemical powerhouses prioritise economic stability, market retention, and job creation through the "Recycle & Re-use" paradigm, concerns emerge regarding fossil fuel dependency and inadequate environmental impact mitigation. Conversely, Canada, Kenya, the European Union, and environmental advocates advocated for environmental conservation, sustainable practises, and public health benefits within the "Reduce" strategy. Nevertheless, challenges such as potential economic impacts, transitional hurdles, and the intricacies of global demand dynamics underline the delicate global pursuit of a balanced solution that harmonises both economic objectives and environmental sustainability.

So, which is it?!

The global plastic issue is sadly not a clear-cut problem - it morphs into diverse challenges based on a nation's economic structure, waste management capabilities, and environmental priorities. To truly grasp the dynamics of this diplomatic tussle, one must delve into the specific circumstances of each country.?

While advanced economies, exemplified by various European countries with robust waste management systems, can reasonably highlight recycling and reusing initiatives, the scenario differs significantly in many developing nations, especially in Southeast Asia. These regions often struggle with severe plastic pollution due to factors like inadequate waste infrastructure, rapid urbanisation, and limited resources for comprehensive environmental management. In these situations, pushing for a reduction in production emerges as a more immediate and practical measure to address the urgent environmental challenges.

A noteworthy aspect frequently emphasised in international forums like the Conference of the Parties (COP) is the debate surrounding responsibility for plastic production. Historically, developed nations were major contributors to global pollution as primary plastic producers. However, dynamics have shifted. Many developing nations, not major players in oil or plastics production, find themselves at the forefront of the environmental crisis. Why, you ask? Because they are now dealing with an influx of plastic waste from more developed regions, and sadly, not by choice. This asymmetry, then, raises many questions about equity and shared responsibility in mitigating the environmental impact of plastic production and consumption.?

Much like the problem, the solution requires a thoughtful, interconnected strategy. It's not just about recycling and reusing, though those are crucial components. We need to go beyond and adopt a holistic approach. A holistic approach would recognise the interconnectedness of these approaches, acknowledging that recycling and re-use are crucial but not sufficient on their own. Simultaneously, efforts to reduce plastic production should be accompanied by investments in sustainable alternatives, innovative technologies, and global cooperation.

T?h?e? ?b?o?t?t?o?m? ?l?i?n?e? ?i?s? ?t?h?i?s?: developed nations must acknowledge their role in the plastic pollution issue and take substantive action to address it. Beyond rectifying their own practices, these nations should extend support to developing countries in their pursuit of sustainable development. Striking the right balance is the name of the game for a greener and more balanced future.

Big talks aside, while we await the magnates to wrap up their negotiations and craft a strategy for everyone, we regular folks should definitely keep an eye on our plastic habits, especially the single-use kind in our day-to-day lives. I don’t know about you, but embracing all three Rs—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—sounds like a sensible plan for a kiasu Asian like me. I might just keep flinging my trusty reusable bag around while slowly recycling and reducing the plastic bag stash in my drawer. After all, any global strategy will not be successful without a shift in behaviour and mindset among the everyday earth-dwellers.