Nations finalize treaty talks in South Korea to tackle global plastic pollution crisis

Nations are concluding treaty negotiations in Busan, South Korea, aimed at addressing the global plastic pollution crisis. The treaty seeks to establish legally binding measures to reduce plastic production and pollution, with a deadline set for the end of 2024. Plastic production has surged, with over 400 million tons produced annually. Without policy changes, this could rise by 70% by 2040. Panama is advocating for strict production limits within the treaty, emphasizing that without this focus, the treaty may not effectively address the crisis. Most plastic waste is not recycled, with less than 10% being reused. The treaty discussions include calls to recognize the rights of Indigenous peoples and to identify specific plastic items that could be eliminated to reduce environmental impact.