Disappointment Grows as Plastics Treaty Draft Excludes Production Limits

On the second-to-last day of negotiations for a treaty on plastic pollution, many countries expressed their discontent with a draft agreement that excludes crucial limits on plastic production. This draft appears to favour a minority group of nations, including several Arab states and India, which have consistently resisted production cuts while addressing plastic pollution.

Luis Vayas Valdivieso, the chair of the proceedings, stated, “This represents my best attempts to consolidate various positions that have been expressed through various delegations and groups,” adding that the draft remains open for discussion. Kuwait has publicly supported the text, with Naresh Gangwar, head of the Indian delegation, affirming, “We support the statement made by Kuwait. While there are some improvements that we can suggest, we are happy to discuss this.”

In stark contrast, several delegates voiced strong opposition to the draft. Sebastian Rodriguez, representing Colombia, described the proposal as “entirely unacceptable” and stated, “Our red lines and that of the majority of the members of this hall have been spat upon.” He emphasized the treaty’s importance, saying, “This is not simply about closing a treaty at any cost but about closing a wound that has hurt our oceans and our livelihood. We need a new text.”

The discontent extended beyond individual nations, with approximately 80 member states expressing their disapproval. Juan Carlos Monterrey Gomez, the delegate from Panama, echoed these sentiments, asserting, “This is something that we cannot work with.”

Abdulrahman Al Gwaiz, representing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, acknowledged the draft as a “milestone” but insisted on the necessity for balance among various articles. His comments received applause, particularly from petrochemical nations and members of the Indian delegation.

Independent observers also voiced disappointment regarding the draft’s failure to meet critical mandates. Swathi Seshadri, a petrochemicals specialist at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), criticized the text for not addressing the full life cycle of plastics or mandating reuse and refill systems. She stated, “This text is lopsided and will do nothing… There will be serious implications on global economy, environment, climate, and health.”

Adding to the chorus of disapproval, David Azoulay from the Centre for International Environmental Law emphasized that the new draft undermines years of consultations that supported a more ambitious treaty. He noted that while there are token references to human rights and health, the following provisions weaken any effective measures. “This is a treaty that all but ensures that nothing will change,” he said, urging member states to reject the text.

As negotiations continue, the future of the treaty remains uncertain, with significant divisions between member states. The outcome will likely have lasting implications for global efforts to combat plastic pollution and protect the environment.