The European Union (EU) is actively participating in the final negotiations of the Busan Summit taking place in Busan, South Korea, from November 25 to December 1, 2024. The goal of this summit is to get an agreement regarding the Global Plastics Treaty (INC-5).
In this article we bring you some extra info to understand better what this treaty is all about, and where there could be improvements.
What is the Global Plastics Treaty (INC-5)
The Global Plastics Treaty, formally known as the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee’s fifth session (INC-5), is an international effort to establish a legally binding agreement aimed at addressing plastic pollution comprehensively. The treaty seeks to tackle the entire lifecycle of plastics, from production and design to disposal, with the goal of mitigating their adverse effects on the environment and human health.
Initiated by a United Nations resolution in 2022, the treaty’s development has involved multiple negotiation sessions, with INC-5 being the fifth and final round. The primary objectives include:
- Reducing Plastic Production: Implementing measures to curb the production of primary plastic polymers to prevent environmental contamination.
- Promoting Sustainable Design: Encouraging the creation of plastic products that are reusable, recyclable, or biodegradable to minimize waste.
- Enhancing Waste Management: Improving global waste management systems to ensure proper disposal and recycling of plastic materials.
- Addressing Hazardous Chemicals: Phasing out harmful chemicals used in plastic production to protect human health and ecosystems.
Key Issues and Debates during the Busan Summit
Throughout the negotiations, several critical issues have been at the forefront:
- Production Caps: Discussions on whether to impose binding limits on plastic production have been contentious, with some nations advocating for caps and others opposing them due to economic concerns.
- Voluntary vs. Binding Measures: Debates have arisen over the balance between voluntary national actions and mandatory international obligations to ensure effective implementation.
- Financial Mechanisms: Determining funding sources and financial support for developing countries to manage plastic waste and implement treaty provisions has been a significant topic.
As of November 2024, delegates from 175 countries are convening in Busan, South Korea, for INC-5, aiming to finalize the treaty’s text. Despite ongoing divisions, particularly regarding production caps and the scope of the treaty, there is a concerted effort to reach a consensus by the end of the year.
Significance of the Busan Summit
The successful adoption of the Global Plastics Treaty would mark a historic step in international environmental policy, providing a unified framework to combat plastic pollution worldwide. It reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to address the plastic crisis through coordinated global action.
The EU aims to establish a comprehensive global framework to combat plastic pollution, addressing its detrimental effects on the environment and human health.
Executive Vice-President for the European Green Deal, Maroš Šefčovič, emphasized the urgency of coordinated global policies to transform plastic production and consumption patterns. He stated, “Plastics are choking our oceans, polluting the environment, and harming people’s health and livelihoods. If business as usual continues, plastic production will triple by 2060. We need coordinated global policies to change plastic production and consumption patterns in a way that delivers for people and the planet.”
EU’s Strategic Priorities for the Treaty:
- Comprehensive Production Controls: The EU advocates for global regulations to manage the entire lifecycle of plastics, from production to disposal. This includes eliminating hazardous chemicals in plastics and phasing out problematic products, such as certain single-use plastics. Notably, over 127 countries have already implemented regulations on single-use plastics, as reported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
- Promotion of Circular Economy: The EU proposes obligations to enhance the circularity of the plastics industry, encouraging sustainable product design and the elimination of intentionally added microplastics. This approach aims to prevent plastic pollution in marine and other environments, which is key to addressing biodiversity loss.
- Implementation of the Polluter Pays Principle: The EU emphasizes that major producers should bear financial responsibility for plastic pollution. This includes utilizing existing financial arrangements and private sector contributions for the treaty’s implementation.
- Support for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Schemes: The EU underscores the importance of EPR schemes and the expansion of waste management infrastructures as essential measures for the treaty’s success.
The EU’s commitment aligns with the G20 leaders’ declaration in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19, 2024, which expressed a collective ambition to finalize an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution by the end of 2024.
The adoption of this treaty is a key priority of the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan under the European Green Deal. The EU continues to engage with global partners to achieve a treaty that effectively addresses the escalating plastic pollution crisis.
EU’s Proactive Measures Against Plastic Pollution
In July 2021, the European Union enacted a ban on specific single-use plastic items, including plates, cutlery, straws, balloon sticks, and cotton buds, prohibiting their placement on the markets of EU Member States.
This directive also targeted expanded polystyrene cups, food and beverage containers, and all products made of oxo-degradable plastic. These measures aim to reduce plastic waste and its environmental impact.
In 2022, the EU generated approximately 83.4 million tonnes of packaging waste, averaging 186.5 kg per inhabitant. Of this, 19% was plastic, equating to about 15.8 million tonnes. The recycling rate for plastic packaging waste stood at 41%, indicating a need for improved waste management and recycling initiatives.
Challenges in Treaty Negotiations
Negotiating a global plastics treaty presents challenges, including reconciling differing national interests and economic considerations. Some nations may prioritize economic growth over environmental regulations, while others might lack the infrastructure to implement stringent waste management practices. Achieving consensus requires balancing environmental objectives with economic realities.
Stakeholder Engagement
The treaty’s development involves diverse stakeholders:
- Industry Leaders: Companies are exploring sustainable practices and alternative materials to reduce plastic usage.
- Environmental Organizations: Advocacy groups are raising awareness and pushing for robust environmental protections.
- Public Participation: Citizen involvement through education and behavioral changes is crucial for the treaty’s success.
Next Steps
The final text of the Global Plastics Treaty is expected to be concluded during the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) in Busan, South Korea, from November 25 to December 1, 2024. Upon adoption, countries will need to ratify and implement the treaty, with timelines varying based on national legislative processes. The EU plans to integrate the treaty’s provisions into its existing Circular Economy Action Plan, reinforcing its commitment to reducing plastic pollution.