What’s Next for the Global Plastics Treaty?
Ellen MacArthur Foundation
We are committed to the creation of a circular economy to eliminate waste, circulate products, and regenerate nature.
The recent INC-5 negotiations in South Korea highlighted the challenges of forging a global treaty to combat plastic pollution. Despite the determined efforts of the Chair and government representatives, time ran out for countries to reach a final agreement. The negotiations have been extended, with a date and location to be announced in 2025. This outcome underscores the complexity of achieving consensus on such a critical issue.
Nevertheless, there is hope. Never before has such a strong majority aligned on ambitious legally binding global rules. Over 100 countries are in favour of the phase-outs of problematic plastic products and sustainable levels of virgin plastic production.
The latest episode of the Circular Economy Show, in collaboration with Outrage and Optimism, features Ellen MacArthur and Christiana Figueres in conversation about these negotiations and their wider implications. The discussion addresses the need for stronger regulations, while also encouraging investment in new materials and delivery systems. A harmonised global treaty could unlock billions of dollars of economic opportunity, creating a level-playing field and stimulating investment and innovation.?
Plastic pollution is more than a waste management issue – it’s deeply tied to the climate crisis, contributing to 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing the root causes of plastic pollution requires rethinking how materials are designed, produced, and recycled. This is about building systems that prevent waste and create long-term value, forming the foundation of a circular economy.
This moment is about more than plastic pollution. A transition to a circular? economy could drive innovation, boost economic growth, and strengthen our ability to tackle climate challenges. Achieving this transformation requires global cooperation, strong policy frameworks, and a collective commitment to redesigning systems that work for both people and the planet.
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This episode paints a picture of what’s possible if bold action is taken—and why it matters.
Listen to the full episode for more of Ellen’s and Christiana’s expert insight after INC-5 and what the future of the global plastic pollution treaty could look like in 2025.
Founder, Social Entrepreneur, International Development, Communications Expert, Faculty, Author, Speaker
1 个月Below is a compilation of medical studies on human ingestion of degraded plastic. We welcome collaboration on policy, advocacy, and on a new short form documentary based on our video series on our need to "Refuse, Replace, Remove" since "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" has been a complete failure: REFUSE?increases in plastic production, REPLACE?plastic items with biodegradable products and fund research to, and REMOVE?jagged pieces of degraded plastic particulate from the human body, air, water and soil. The concepts of "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" are outdated and not resulting in tangible progress on plastic pollution: REDUCE?consumption of plastic is nonsensical as projections of global production of plastic is estimated at 1 trillion 840 million tons by 2050, up from 460 million tons in 2019 REUSE?of plastic products is limited by disposable fast fashion clothing, single-use plastics, and electronics that are largely not reused or refurbished, and RECYCLE?will often?mobilize and worsen the toxic context of recycled plastic. Again, we welcome collaboration. https://www.youtube.com/@PlasticsImpactonHumanHealt-l9u
Founder - Strategist Masterplanner Architect Designer
2 个月Whilst Global Targets by the UN and Govt’s are sub-optimally set against the reality - the scales between Reduction/Eradication and Adaptation is on a tipping point (and possibly beyond)…. This dilemma is closely aligned with the critical scenario of Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss.
PRESIDENT at ENVIRO-PURE FOUNDATION
2 个月While talks continue without results we are pushing hard with real solutions like installing WaterATMs in Indonesia for refill. Each kiosk removes 10,000 to 20,000 per day single use bottles, running on solar power. Quality of water better than branded,99% fewer micro-and nano plastics, zero bacteria and viruses, no chemicals based on 47 years of experience worldwide Lowest Capex and Opex. Just starting capital required for revolving fund, pay-back 3 years.
Reducing costs with Zero Waste Management Systems | Circular Economy | Sustainability | Transform your waste into resources
2 个月Closely aligned with the International Standard Zero Waste Management Systems, seeking the implementation of 9Rs in all the stages of the process.