Recycling Groups Disappointed over Failure to Reach a Global Plastics Treaty

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The failure of negotiators to reach an agreement to lessen the growing global plastic waste crisis was criticized by the trash and recycling sectors. Nations expressed sharp differences in their views, and the UN-led negotiations, which took place at its headquarters in Geneva from August 5 to 15, ended without a consensus.

Saudi Arabia and other oil-producing nations objected with the idea of limiting plastics manufacturing. Instead of restricting manufacturing, these nations emphasized the significance of strengthening recycling infrastructure to manage plastic waste responsibly. On other topics, such as how to handle certain chemicals in plastics and an action plan to safeguard communities that are directly affected by the dangers of plastic pollution, the group was unable to come to a consensus.

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In a statement, Amy Lestition Burke, CEO of the Solid Waste Association of North America, expressed disappointment that a final agreement could not be reached during the meetings but expressed hope that the discussion would continue.

The UN Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) has agreed to resume negotiations at a future date. Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) stated that the fight against plastic pollution will continue.

The INC had begun negotiations on cutting plastic pollution in March 2022.