The fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC5) for a Global Plastics Treaty concluded without an agreement, leaving critical decisions postponed until the final negotiation meeting.
In response to the delay, Graham Forbes, Greenpeace Head of Delegation to the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations and Global Plastics Campaign Lead at Greenpeace USA, expressed concern:
“Every day that governments allow polluters to continue flooding the world with plastic, we all pay the price. This delay comes with dire consequences for people and the planet, ruthlessly sacrificing those on the frontlines of this crisis. But this week over 100 Member States, representing billions of people, rejected a toothless deal that would have accomplished nothing and stood before the world committing to an ambitious treaty. Now, it’s time they stand by this promise and deliver.
“For the next meeting, the assignment for member states is clear: the ambitious majority must break through fossil fuel influence and the obstruction of a few to deliver an effective agreement with binding global targets and measures to reduce plastic production. They must fight for protections against dangerous chemicals, bans on single-use plastics, reuse targets, and an equitable financing plan. They must use their power to ensure the INC process is inclusive and just, prioritising access for the communities most affected by plastic pollution.”
The negotiations highlight a crucial moment in the fight against plastic pollution. With over 100 nations rejecting inadequate compromises, there is a growing call for binding commitments that address the root causes of the crisis.
“We stand at a historic crossroads,” Forbes added. “The opportunity to secure an impactful plastics treaty that protects our health, biodiversity, and climate remains within reach. Strong political headwinds make this more challenging, but the lesson from INC5 is clear: ambitious countries must not allow the fossil fuel and petrochemical industries, backed by a small minority of countries, to prevent the will of the vast majority. A strong agreement that protects people and the planet is our only option.”
As the clock ticks toward the final meeting, the world watches closely, hoping that nations will rise to the challenge and forge a treaty that prioritises sustainability, accountability, and justice.
