Plastic pollution is fast becoming a worldwide issue, but this has a silver lining in the form of the Global Plastic Treaty. It can shift our current perspective on waste and sustainability. But what's this, and why does it matter? Keep reading to find out.
The new treaty referred to by many as the United Nations Treaty on Plastic Pollution, or also the Global Plastic Treaty, seeks to reduce plastic waste globally. This treaty focuses on reducing pollution at all the stages of the plastic life cycle, from production to disposal. This United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) draft treaty was under development since 2022 and will be finalized by 2024.
This treaty calls for global action regarding the reduction of single-use plastics, increasing better recycling practices, and holding corporations to account for their environmental footprint. It is seen as a game-changer concerning one of the biggest issues of our times: sustainability.
Why Does It Matter?
Scale of Plastic Pollution:
Did you know that 400 million tons of plastic are produced every year, and only 9% is recycled? The rest is in landfills, oceans, and even our food. Plastic debris harms marine life, disrupts ecosystems, and poses health risks to humans.
Global Cooperation:
Plastic pollution does not respect borders. A treaty ensures that all countries—whether large producers like the U.S. or small coastal nations—work together.
Economic Benefits:
The treaty is circular economy-based. The industries can save billions of dollars in material costs and create green jobs by reducing waste and recycling.
Key Features of the Treaty
- Elimination of Single-Use Plastics: Items like straws, cutlery, and packaging could be highly regulated or banned globally.
- Promoting Innovation: The treaty encourages businesses to adopt sustainable practices, such as biodegradable alternatives or reusable systems.
- Accountability for Corporations: EPR makes the company liable for all the life cycles of plastic items.
- Help to the Developing Countries: The agreement provides financial and technological assistance to the developing countries, which face a problem in controlling plastic waste.
Improvement in 2023-2024
The treaty gained much momentum in 2023. UNEP held its third round of negotiation in Paris, which saw participation from more than 175 countries. The bigger players, such as India, the EU, and Japan, called for tighter measures, while the smaller ones, such as the U.S. and China, sought flexibility.
Notably, India banned 19 items from using single-use plastic in 2023. In so doing, it serves as an example of meeting the treaty's goals through a country taking the first move.
Challenges Ahead
While promising, the treaty poses various challenges:
- Resistant Corporates: Companies from big corporations have argued that it would affect the profit margin and consumers.
- Enforcement Problems: Monitoring systems to ensure conformity in the world are badly needed.
- Inequities: Countries with third-world economies cannot afford such alternatives.
What Can You Do?
Change starts at home! Here's how you can do it:
- Use reusable items such as cloth bags and stainless-steel bottles.
- Recycle according to local guidelines.
- Buy from brands that embrace ethical consumerism.
- Spread awareness of the treaty to promote public and corporate accountability.