Negotiations on global plastic pollution treaty stall over key disagreements in Busan

Negotiations for the world's first treaty on plastic pollution have stalled in Busan, South Korea, due to disagreements among countries. Talks will resume later after key issues, such as definitions of sustainable plastic production, remain unresolved. Many nations advocate for binding reductions in new plastic production and phasing out certain single-use plastics. However, oil-producing countries oppose these measures, arguing that the treaty should focus on reducing pollution rather than plastic itself. Discussions also highlighted the need for a multilateral fund to support treaty implementation, with developing countries expressing concerns about financing. Disagreements persist over whether to establish uniform global standards or allow individual countries to set their own targets.