Global Plastic Pollution Treaty: Final Negotiations Begin in Busan with Historic Implications
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
BUSAN, November 2024 - The fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) to develop a legally binding international treaty on plastic pollution commenced today in Busan, South Korea. The meeting, running from 25 November to 1 December, seeks to finalize and approve the treaty's text, marking a pivotal step in the global fight against plastic pollution.
The INC adopted the Chair’s Non-Paper 3 as the foundation for discussions, enabling focused negotiations throughout the week. Addressing the urgency of the moment, H.E. Yoon Suk Yeol, President of South Korea, highlighted humanity’s overreliance on plastic and its dire consequences. In a video message, he urged member states to act with responsibility and solidarity:
"The excessive reliance of humanity on the convenience of plastics has resulted in an exponential increase in plastic waste. The waste accumulated in our oceans and rivers now jeopardizes the lives of future generations. I sincerely hope this week marks the opening of a historic new chapter by finalizing a treaty on plastic pollution."
The INC’s work builds on four prior sessions: Punta del Este in November 2022, Paris in June 2023, Nairobi in November 2023, and Ottawa in April 2024. Each session has progressively refined the draft treaty, culminating in this decisive phase.
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), underscored the stakes:
"The moment of truth is here to end plastic pollution. Nobody wants plastic in their communities, in their bloodstreams, or threatening future generations. This week, we have the chance to finalize a treaty that protects our environment, health, and future."
Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso, Chair of the INC, echoed the urgency, emphasizing global demand for action:
"The voices of the world are clear: we need healthy meals free from microplastics; clean air, oceans, and forests; and safe, non-toxic plastic products. Let us use multilateralism, creativity, and dialogue to craft an ambitious treaty that reflects our collective will."
This session has attracted over 3,800 participants – the highest turnout yet – from more than 170 countries and 600 Observer organizations. It follows months of preparatory consultations, including ministerial meetings and dialogue with Observers.
INC Executive Secretary Jyoti Mathur-Filipp noted that the treaty’s success hinges on its implementation:
"The outcome of these negotiations will shape the future we live in. Once the ink is dry, our focus must shift to action to ensure the treaty delivers a plastic pollution-free future."
As INC-5 unfolds, the world watches with anticipation, hoping for a groundbreaking agreement that addresses one of the planet’s most pressing environmental crises.
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