Nations Meet in Ottawa to Discuss Global Treaty on Ending Plastic Pollution

Negotiators from nations around the world are working towards the creation of a global treaty to combat plastic pollution. This marks a significant step forward as discussions move from developing ideas to drafting the actual treaty text during the fourth meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution.

One of the most contentious issues is the proposal to limit global plastic production. This has sparked strong objections from plastic-producing countries, companies, and oil and gas exporters due to the reliance of plastic production on fossil fuels and chemicals.

Industry spokesperson, Stewart Harris, representing the International Council of Chemical Associations, emphasized the importance of focusing on recycling and reuse of plastic, also known as “circularity.” The private sector aims to collaborate with governments in the implementation of the treaty, expressing the desire to see it successfully completed.

Scientific Evidence and Advocacy

The Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty presented scientific evidence on plastic pollution to dispel misinformation. The coalition's co-leader, Bethanie Carney Almroth, highlighted the extensive body of research on microplastics, countering claims of insufficient data. The scientists also reported facing harassment and intimidation from lobbyists.

Despite their differences, countries participating in the negotiations share a common vision to address the environmental crisis caused by plastic pollution. Ecuador's chief negotiator, Walter Schuldt, emphasized the importance of the treaty in safeguarding the future of all life on the planet.

The negotiators are working towards concluding the treaty by the end of 2024. Expert working groups are set to address critical topics, with the final round of talks scheduled to take place in the fall in South Korea. The interim preparatory work between meetings is considered essential for progress.

The treaty talks originated in December 2022 in Uruguay, following the proposal put forward by Rwanda and Peru. Subsequent meetings in Paris and Nairobi saw deliberations on the rules for the negotiation process. The ongoing discussions in Ottawa represent a crucial stage in achieving a new treaty aimed at eliminating plastic pollution.

Concerns from Affected Communities

Residents from regions impacted by plastic manufacturing and pollution, such as Louisiana and Texas, have been actively engaging with negotiators. Representatives from the Break Free From Plastic movement urged officials to witness firsthand the environmental challenges faced by their communities.

Members of the Indigenous Peoples’ Caucus highlighted the contamination of their food supply by microplastics, emphasizing the threat posed to their communities and traditional lifestyles. Indigenous representatives called for greater inclusion in decision-making processes, stressing the urgent need for effective solutions to protect their ancestral lands and resources.

Vi Waghiyi, representing Arctic Indigenous peoples, emphasized the importance of ensuring that the treaty protects current and future generations from the harmful effects of plastic pollution. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.