More than 3,300 people, including representatives from more than 170 countries and more than 440 observer organizations, participated in this important session that began on November 25.
Delegates attending the meeting agreed on a “Chairman’s Draft” prepared by Ecuadorian Ambassador Luis Via Valdivieso, the Fifth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC), which will serve as the basis for future negotiations.
The commitment is clear
In the closing session, Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), acknowledged progress in the talks and highlighted remaining challenges.
he saidThe global commitment to ending plastic pollution is clear, and undeniable.
At the Busan talks, we came very close to agreeing a legally binding global agreement that will protect our health, environment and future from the devastating effects of plastic pollution.”
He said that while Busan had seen “excellent progress”, “persistent differences” remained in some key areas.
“The negotiators succeeded in achieving a better mutual understanding on the countries’ positions and shared challenges, as well as on the framework and elements of the draft agreement.”
“But it is clear that disagreements remain on some important issues and more time is needed to focus on these areas.”
The INC will resume talks in 2025, for a venue to be announced later.
Considerable time is required
Luis Voce Valdivieso, president of the INC, said the committee’s “direction was always ambitious.”
he saidAmbition takes time to materialize. Busan firmly set us on the path to success.”
Luis Vías Valdivieso said, “I call on all delegations to continue to pave the way, build bridges and dialogue… We must always remember that our objective is not only noble, but necessary, to reverse and combat the deadly effects of plastic. Pollution on Ecosystems and Human Health.”
A widespread problem
Plastic pollution problem is a major global challenge.
Every day, the equivalent of about 2,000 garbage trucks full of plastic is dumped into oceans, rivers and lakes. It is posing serious threat to wildlife and human health.
Microplastic particles have been found in food, water, soil and even human organs and the placenta of newborns.
Under the agreement adopted by the UN Environment Council in 2022, efforts are made to address the entire life cycle of plastics.
This includes finding appropriate solutions for the production, design and disposal of plastics through legally binding agreements.