Over 100 countries support plastic treaty caps as negotiations intensify in South Korea

Negotiators in Busan, South Korea, are in the final stages of talks for a global treaty to reduce plastic pollution. Over 100 countries support a plan to cap plastic production, while a few oil-producing nations prefer focusing only on waste management. As discussions continue, key differences remain on the treaty's scope. A proposal backed by Panama aims for production reduction targets, contrasting with opposition from petrochemical-producing countries like Saudi Arabia, which seek to avoid production caps. With time running out, there are concerns the talks may collapse or require further sessions. Environmental groups have criticized a draft treaty for not adequately addressing health risks associated with harmful chemicals in plastics.