Negotiators fail to finalize plastic pollution treaty in South Korea, talks to continue next year

Negotiators in Busan, South Korea, failed to reach an agreement on a treaty to combat plastic pollution. The talks, intended to finalize a legally binding treaty by the end of 2024, will resume next year due to disagreements over key issues. Countries are divided on whether the treaty should limit plastic production and regulate toxic chemicals. Some nations, particularly those involved in plastic production, oppose these proposals, while over 100 countries advocate for stronger measures to address plastic pollution. The negotiations faced criticism for a lack of transparency, with many stakeholders feeling excluded. Despite the setback, South Korea's foreign affairs minister stated that the discussions have moved the world closer to a solution for plastic pollution.