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UN Talks for a Plastic Treaty Have Failed to Reach Agreement: What Now?

As we head toward the end of the year, I was hoping I could report on the good news that a global plastic treaty to help reduce plastic pollution and control the production of new plastic was agreed upon and on its way to implementation. Instead, the last negotiations were adjourned with a plan to resume in 2025.

At the recent meeting, countries were deeply divided over the text that would be accepted into the treaty. Over 100 nations supported capping plastic production, while some, particularly oil-producing states, resisted such measures, focusing instead on waste management solutions.

The absence of consensus underscores the complexity of balancing economic interests with environmental imperatives. Although stalling is not a great outcome it's the result of some parties standing their ground to ensure that the treaty addresses the issues sufficiently. According to the CBS News 95 of the attending nations decided to oppose any agreement that did not contain a legally enforceable phase-out and ultimate ban of particular dangerous chemicals and goods (CBS News).

I'm disappointed that the talks failed, but hopeful they can reach some sort of consensus by 2025. While global consensus may take time, grassroots efforts and individual actions can continue to drive meaningful progress. Every step we take to cut down on single-use plastics, generate less waste, recycle properly, and demand accountability from brands, industries, and governments matters.

It’s not the end of the fight against plastic pollution. Instead, it’s a reminder for us to double down on what we can control—reducing, reusing, and recycling.

Together, we can build momentum for a sustainable future, one small change at a time.

So what will you change in 2025? Reply to this email and let me know what you plan to focus on in 2025.

Looking for some ideas take a look at I'm not plastic-free, but I've reduced a lot over the years​

Read more about the Global Plastics Treaty

• ​Plastics Europe: The Global Plastics Treaty​
• ​Plastic pollution treaty negotiations adjourn in Busan, to resume next year​
• ​EU regrets lack of conclusion on global plastics agreement​
• ​Countries fail to agree deal to "end the world's plastic pollution crisis"​
• ​Extended producer responsibility and a global plastics treaty – what do the experts say?​
• ​Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty​

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Catch up on your reading

Why Is It So Important To Buy Recycled Products? Read article

Plastic Number 4 LDPE – Low-density Polyethylene Read article

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