Leaders negotiate global plastic pollution treaty in South Korea

Negotiators are meeting in Busan, South Korea, to finalize a treaty aimed at tackling global plastic pollution. Led by Norway and Rwanda, 66 countries and the EU are pushing for stricter controls on plastic production and disposal, rather than focusing solely on recycling. Island nations, heavily impacted by plastic waste, advocate for a comprehensive approach to reduce plastic production, which is largely derived from fossil fuels. In contrast, oil-producing countries prefer an agreement centered on waste management and recycling, despite low recycling rates. The outcome of the talks is uncertain, with key players like China and the U.S. not aligning with either side. Concerns have also been raised about the influence of major plastic producers on the negotiations, as they seek to shift focus away from production limits.