Negotiations for global plastics treaty conclude in South Korea

Negotiations for a global plastics treaty are set to conclude this week in Busan, South Korea. Representatives from about 175 countries aim to finalize a binding agreement to address the growing plastic pollution crisis after two years of discussions. Countries are divided on how to tackle plastic waste. While over 60 nations support a goal to cut plastic production by 40% by 2040, oil-producing countries prefer focusing on recycling rather than production limits, as they seek to protect their fossil fuel markets. The U.S. has shifted its position to support production reduction, but future changes in leadership could affect this stance. Despite disagreements, many nations, especially in the Global South, continue to advocate for strong measures against plastic pollution.