A primer on plastic pollution treaty talks

Sub :Env

Sec: Int conventions

Context:

The last round of negotiations for a legally binding treaty to combat global plastic pollution is underway in Busan, South Korea.
The treaty aims to create a legally binding global framework to address plastic pollution by managing production, consumption, design, and waste.

Chemicals and Polymers of Concern:

Chemicals of Concern: Includes phthalates, bisphenols, and flame retardants, known for toxicity and health risks.
Polymers of Concern: Expanded polystyrene (EPS), PVC, and other non-recyclable materials contribute to environmental harm.
Proposals:
- Norway and EU: Strong global regulations, lists for elimination/minimization.
- Opposition: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Russia oppose including chemicals in the treaty, citing existing conventions (e.g., Stockholm Convention).
- Moderates: India and Egypt propose national discretion with risk-based approaches.

Proposals from Key Nations:

Rwanda: Proposed a 40% reduction in primary plastic production by 2040 (baseline: 2025).
EU: Comprehensive targets with reviews and elimination of subsidies for plastic production.
Peru: Focus on sustainable production and analysis of global trade in plastics.
Guatemala, Philippines, Thailand, Panama, and Australia: Emphasize capacity building, gradual implementation, and focus on challenging plastics.
Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Kuwait: Strongly oppose global mandates on production and chemical regulation.

Global Plastic Pollution:

Plastic pollution is a critical environmental issue caused by the excessive production, inadequate disposal, and pervasive use of plastics. It affects ecosystems, wildlife, and human health worldwide.

Key Facts and Statistics

Production and Waste:
- Global plastic production reached 367 million tons in 2020 and is projected to rise to 736 million tons by 2040 without policy intervention.
- Less than 10% of plastic waste is recycled, while the majority ends up in landfills or the environment.
Ocean Pollution:
- Around 11 million tons of plastic waste enter oceans annually, a figure that could triple by 2040.
- Plastic pollution affects at least 700 marine species, often through ingestion or entanglement.
Single-Use Plastics:
- Single-use plastics account for a significant portion of pollution. Items like bags, bottles, and straws are used briefly but persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
Microplastics:
- Microplastics (<5mm) result from the breakdown of larger plastics and are found in water, air, and soil.
- They pose risks to marine life and human health through the food chain.

Sources of Plastic Pollution

Industries:
- Packaging (largest contributor, about 40% of plastic use).
- Textiles, electronics, and construction materials.
Consumer Waste:
- Improper disposal of products like bottles, bags, and single-use items.
Fishing and Shipping:
- Abandoned fishing gear and waste from shipping activities contribute significantly to marine plastic pollution.

Environmental Impacts

Ecosystems: Plastics disrupt habitats, block sunlight, and release toxins into soil and water.
Wildlife: Animals ingest or become entangled in plastics, leading to injuries, starvation, or death.
Climate Change: Plastic production and incineration contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, with emissions expected to reach 1.34 gigatons annually by 2030.

Human Health Risks

Chemical Exposure: Plastics release harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which are linked to hormonal and reproductive issues.
Microplastics: Detected in food, water, and air, microplastics may carry toxins that affect human health.

Global Efforts to Combat Plastic Pollution

Paris Agreement (2015): Includes commitments to reduce emissions from plastic production.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): Advocates for a global agreement to eliminate plastic pollution.
International Coastal Cleanups: Mobilize volunteers worldwide to collect waste from beaches and waterways.

Source: TH