Industry calls on UN member states to use the next round of talks to secure a global consensus and enabling policy frameworks to tackle plastic pollution.
Regarding the end of INC 5.2 negotiations, Virginia Janssens, Managing Director at Plastics Europe, said:
“We hear and share society’s concerns and are disappointed by the inability to agree on a legally binding global agreement on plastics pollution in Geneva. Nevertheless, we would like to recognise the tireless work of the Chair and UN member states’ negotiating teams. We applaud the decision and political will to continue negotiations and build much-needed global consensus and enabling policy frameworks.
Plastic pollution is a global – not regional – challenge, and we urge all UN member states to resume multilateral efforts as soon as possible.
We believe the agreement needs measures promoting sustainable production and consumption, effective waste management for the 2.7 billion people who currently live without them, and to ensure reporting frameworks that enable a just transition to a Circular Economy. We want end-of-life plastic to become a circular feedstock and commodity with real value rather than waste that is littered, landfilled or incinerated.
Plastics Europe has consistently championed the importance of collaboration between governments, industry, and civil society, and the need for negotiators to stay focused on identifying common and nationally adaptable solutions if we are to achieve an equitable and ambitious global plastics agreement.
EU ambitions and regulatory frameworks remain among the most advanced in the world. Plastics Europe and its members will continue working with EU policymakers to help deliver our Plastics Transition roadmap — a credible path to circularity and net zero by 2050 — while boosting Europe’s competitiveness.”
Notes for Editors
Plastics Europe is the pan-European association of plastics manufacturers with offices across Europe. For over 100 years, science and innovation have been the DNA that cuts across our industry. With members producing over 90% of all polymers across EU27+3 (Norway, Switzerland, UK) we are the catalyst for the industry with a responsibility to openly engage with stakeholders and deliver solutions which are safe, circular and sustainable. We are committed to implementing long-lasting positive change.
Press Contact
Cecilia Koshiikene
Senior Manager, Media Relations & Digital Strategy
media@plasticseurope.org