Independent scientific research is essential to tackling the challenges the plastics systems transition towards a circular and net zero model.
Therefore, Plastics Europe takes very seriously any accusations of intimidation or harassment of independent scientists by representatives of the plastics industry during the INC process. Our association, and our members, have a zero-tolerance approach to any such behaviour, being in breach with our association’s values.
When word of such events first circulated during INC3 in Nairobi, Plastics Europe immediately contacted a representative of the Scientists Coalition to highlight existing reporting mechanisms and to offer support.
It is important to emphasise that while no team member of Plastics Europe has been accused of these behaviours, our small team of observers at INC5 in Busan is deeply distressed by media reports of the reported intimidation and harassment targeted predominantly at female researchers and will not hesitate to call out any such behaviour.
As the negotiations continue, and especially where perspectives and opinions differ in a tense final few hours, there is both a responsibility and need to ensure that everybody, whether they are negotiators or observers, engages with each other in a professional and respectful way.
In the event of any further untoward behaviour by plastics manufacturing industry representatives on the ground, please report it to Plastics Europe. We will take the necessary measures to address the issue and escalate it to the appropriate parties.
We call on all stakeholders to focus their efforts on overcoming the remaining challenges to secure an internationally legally binding agreement to end plastics waste by 2040.