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Final Negotiations to develop an International Treaty on Plastic Pollution

25 November 2024

Proposing MP
Kingston upon Hull West and Haltemprice
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

At a Glance

Issue Summary

Emma Hardy discusses the final negotiations for an international treaty on plastic pollution, highlighting the urgency of a coordinated response to reduce plastic waste.

Action Requested

The Government aims to catalyse a circular economy transition through extended producer responsibility and the Deposit Return Scheme. The UK will continue its leadership role in the High Ambition Coalition at INC-5 in Busan to secure an ambitious treaty by December 2024.

Key Facts

  • World produces 400 million tonnes of plastic waste annually.
  • Scientists predict a threefold increase in oceanic plastic by 2040.
  • UN established an intergovernmental negotiating committee with completion target for end of 2024.
  • Final meeting (INC-5) is scheduled from 25 November to 1 December 2024 in Busan, Republic of Korea.
  • Draft treaty includes provisions on production, consumption, waste management, emissions, and financial assistance.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy