2024-11-30 13:29:08
Politics

Global Efforts to Tackle Plastic Waste Face Challenges

Image used under license from Shutterstock.com

The ongoing international negotiations in Busan, South Korea, aim to address the pressing issue of plastic waste. A draft agreement, however, highlights significant disagreements among participating countries. Central to the debate are differences over imposing controls on global plastic production, a measure supported by the High Ambition Coalition (HAC), which includes nations from Europe, Africa, and Asia. In contrast, oil-producing countries like Saudi Arabia oppose such regulations, emphasizing their economic interests.

The draft also lacks a definitive list of harmful chemicals associated with plastics, deferring these discussions to future conferences. Similarly, a section on health implications remains vague, with the possibility of its complete removal. These omissions reflect the wider rift between countries reliant on fossil fuel economies and those advocating for stringent environmental measures.

Frustration is palpable among smaller nations, particularly island states severely affected by ocean pollution. Delegates from these regions, like Andrew Yatilman from Micronesia, are vocal about the urgent need for decisive action. They argue that without significant reductions in plastic production, the environmental damage will continue to escalate.

Environmental organizations caution against accepting a low-ambition agreement, warning that without robust measures, the pact will be ineffective. The current global situation is dire, with plastic production having doubled since 2000 and expected to triple by 2060. Alarmingly, over 90% of plastic is not recycled, contributing to widespread pollution that now pervades even remote environments.

As negotiations progress, the outcome remains uncertain. The challenge lies in reconciling the interests of nations dependent on fossil fuels with those advocating for a sustainable future. Without consensus, the global fight against plastic pollution may falter.

AFP
29. November 2024 um 13:11

Draft for an agreement to reduce plastic waste shows persistent differences

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Environmental organizations warn of the "low ambitions" in the draft. According to OECD figures, plastic production is expected to triple by 2060, with more than 90 percent not being recycled. The head of the Micronesian delegation demands that something must be done, otherwise soon plastic will be eaten instead of fish. A European diplomat says that "mopping the floor while the tap is running is pointless".
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30. November 2024 um 06:02

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Plastic waste pollutes beaches, waters, and ecosystems worldwide. More than 170 countries are negotiating an agreement to reduce plastic pollution. Key points of contention are production caps for plastics and the role of countries like China and Saudi Arabia.
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30. November 2024 um 07:07

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zdf
30. November 2024 um 09:15

Little Prospect of Success for Plastic Agreement

Environment
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170 countries are negotiating in South Korea on how to curb global plastic waste. But the resistance of the oil-producing countries makes an agreement unlikely.
CW

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