World needs global treaty with holistic approach to plastic lifecycle management
Waste collectors at a garbage dumpsite in GuwahatiLeaders at Busan must push for a robust, transformative treaty that protects human health, prioritises the needs of marginalised communities, and builds a safer, healthier and sustainable future
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Nothing micro about this menace
The evidence on microplastics affecting human and environmental health has become too significant to ignore, a fact that delegates will do well to remember when they meet for the final negotiation on a global plastic treaty in Busan next month
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With COP29 climate talks failing in Baku, all eyes now set on Busan
The world watches with hope, as INC-5 represents a unique opportunity to lay the foundation for a sustainable, plastic-free future.Signing of the global plastics treaty is being heralded as a milestone with comparisons drawn with the historic Paris Agreement
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Global Plastics Treaty: Producers must contribute to a global fund, demand UN experts
The experts argued the treaty should also reflect key human rights principles, including transparency, prevention and accountability. UN experts stated that ending plastic pollution necessitates placing human rights at the core of the legally binding instrument
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Global meet may see India push for a ban on single-use plastics: CSE
CSE team to attend INC-5 session on ending plastic pollution globally; meeting being held in Busan, South Korea from November 25-December 1
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Just half of Americans know that plastic is made from petroleum: Survey
Kenyan population has been found to be more aware about plastics than their American and Canadian counterparts Kenyan population has been found to be more aware about plastics than their American and Canadian counterparts
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INC-5 Diary (November 25, 2024): Thousands march in Busan to end plastic pollution
UNEP Head Inger AndersenMore than 900 independent scientists called on UN negotiators to agree on a comprehensive and ambitious global plastics treaty based on robust scientific evidence
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Global Plastic Profiles: Where do countries stand on emissions and releases of plastics across their life cycle?
The Philippines has taken a proactive stance in addressing emissions across the plastic life cycle
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Global Plastic Profiles: How well do countries manage their polymer waste?
India has specifically supported the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, recognising varying capacities among nations to address waste management challenges
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Global Plastic Profiles: Why addressing existing polymer pollution is a critical priority
Turtles can eat plastic bags and bottles mistaking them for jellyfishBy engaging all stakeholders and adopting a coordinated global response, the treaty negotiations seek to build a framework that effectively tackles the challenges posed by legacy plastic pollution
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Global Plastic Profiles: Is there a just transition in plastics?
Just transition initiatives focus on fair, equitable, and inclusive measures for affected populations, with special attention to women and other vulnerable groupsA multi-faceted approach to just transition seeks to ensure no group is left behind in the global shift toward sustainability
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UN chief calls for global action in Busan talks to end plastic pollution
“For too long, we have kicked the plastic bottle down the road”: António Guterres urges INC-5 negotiators to finalise a treaty that tackles single-use plastics, strengthens waste management systems and promotes sustainable alternatives
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Like-Minded Countries need to collaborate, not isolate, for a robust plastic treaty at INC-5 in Busan
By aligning with other developing countries, LMCs can ensure their interests are effectively represented while contributing to a strong, unified position
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INC-5 Diary (November 26, 2024): Promise and complexity on display as member states debate critical aspects
Jyoti Mathur-Filipp, Executive Secretary, Secretariat of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution, speaks at the talks in Busan.While there were encouraging signs of ambition and systemic reform, significant obstacles remain, particularly in aligning priorities and ensuring meaningful inclusivity in the process
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Global Plastic Profiles: How do countries fare on primary polymers?
Transparent plastic granules. Widespread production and use of these basic building blocks have contributed significantly to global economic growth but have also raised serious environmental concerns
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Global Plastic Profiles: Why chemicals and polymers of concern are a priority in treaty negotiations
Polystyrene foam.Scientific evidence underscores the adverse impacts of many plastic-related chemicals which contribute to serious health issues
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Global Plastic Profiles: How talks seek to phase out ‘problematic’ and ‘avoidable’ polymers
Often improperly disposed of or littered, ‘problematic plastics’ contribute to habitat degradation, visual pollution, and harm to wildlife.Addressing problematic and avoidable plastics requires a delicate balance between global mandates and national flexibility
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Global Plastic Profiles: On product design and performance, countries have taken varying stances
By addressing product design and performance holistically, nations can develop standards that advance sustainability without compromising functionality
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Global Plastic Profiles: Where do countries stand on financing mechanisms?
Options being considered include contributions from producers, levies on plastic products, and international funding bodies
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Why does the world need a global plastic treaty?
Out of 400 million tonnes of plastic waste is generated annually, merely 9% of plastics are recycled
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INC-5 Diary (November 27, 2024): Consensus still not building up as mid-week deadline passes
Highest number of fossil fuel and chemical industry lobbyists registered to participate at Busan
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INC-5 Diary (November 28, 2024): Hair-splitting about syntax on fourth day as negotiations enter decisive phase
The Panamanian delegation meets UNEP Head, Inger Andersen.Several scientists working on plastics have felt unsafe and harassed by alleged aggressive industry lobbying, according to a new investigation
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INC-5: The Chair’s Non-Paper is a solid foundation but would need significant revision for a robust treaty
UNEP Head Inger Andersen meets with AOSIS representatives in Busan.Stronger language, enforceable mechanisms, and greater emphasis on transparency and traceability are necessary to achieve the treaty’s ambitious goals
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INC-5: Chair’s text released before closing plenary risks making plastic treaty ‘exercise in rhetoric than resolve’
Securing a deal is undoubtedly important, but it must not come at the expense of meaningful action
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INC-5: Busan meet ends without a treaty to end plastic pollution
The Busan meeting underscores a stark reality: achieving consensus is not enough if it comes at the expense of ambition
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Simply Put: Train to Busan
Plastics treaty: Giant eye flag at Busan reminds of power of art in consolidating public support for global good
The flag was installed with the purpose of reminding country heads negotiating the treaty that the world is watching them. Public art installations have emerged as a potent medium for climate activism
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From paradise to plastics pollution: Bali’s battle for marine plastics debris
Littering is a challenge for waste management in Indonesia.Bali has a unique opportunity to address plastic waste by integrating sustainable practices into the tourism experience
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