The Plastics Treaty: Next Steps on Negotiations

At what stage of development is the UN global treaty to address plastic pollution? What groundwork has been laid and what will it take to reach implementation and enforcement?

One hundred and seventy five countries voted in March 2022 to develop a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution by 2024. Now the clock is ticking: the UN, corporate leaders, policymakers, and countless other stakeholders are under pressure to develop and enact a strong global treaty that addresses the environmental and social externalities of the overproduction and pollution of plastic. 

The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (established by the United Nations Environment Assembly) is tasked with drafting the plastic treaty. Their second meeting will take place in Paris several days before Circularity 23. Join leaders who were in the midst of the action in Paris for a timely update on progress, the remaining challenges and how to maintain momentum heading into the final months of negotiations.