Global Agreement on Plastic Waste Faces Roadblocks

The draft of the first international agreement to curb plastic waste reveals significant disagreements among nations. As discussions near conclusion in Busan, South Korea, the draft displays numerous unresolved issues and contrasting visions, with parts left open to interpretation. The proposed control mechanism for global plastic production has support from the High Ambition Coalition, including Germany, but faces opposition from Saudi Arabia, which demands its removal.

The draft lacks a list of harmful chemicals, deferring the issue to future talks. Health-related sections are sparse, echoing Saudi Arabia's stance to potentially eliminate them entirely. This reflects a divide between oil-producing countries and the diverse coalition of European, African, Latin American, and Asian nations pushing for stringent measures.

Frustration grows among delegates, particularly from small island states vulnerable to oceanic plastic pollution. Andrew Yatilman from Micronesia highlighted the threat, stating, "If nothing is done, we will soon eat plastic instead of fish." Panama's Juan Carlos Monterrey Gómez advocates for nations opposing production cuts to step aside, emphasizing that negotiations should not settle for greenwashing.

Environmental groups warn against accepting the draft's low ambitions, arguing that without decisive action, the agreement will fail. The global production of plastic, which has doubled since 2000, continues to rise. More than 90% of plastics are not recycled, leading to lasting environmental contamination. Scientists have found plastic pollution pervasive, even in remote areas and within human bodies.

With over 170 countries participating, the urgency of reaching an effective agreement is paramount. Yet, disputes over production limits and the roles of major players like China and Saudi Arabia remain central hurdles in the path to a binding resolution.