Last Chances: The Global Battle to Curb Plastic Pollution
As global delegates meet in Geneva, hopes for a strong treaty to curb plastic pollution wane due to opposition from major petrochemical-producing countries. With plastic production set to triple by 2060, small island states demand urgent action, while differing stances from the U.S. complicate negotiations.
Delegates from around the globe convene in Geneva this week, pursuing an elusive and ambitious treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution. The meeting, seen as a final chance to halt rising production fueled by petroleum, confronts significant opposition from petrochemical powerhouses like Saudi Arabia and the Trump-led United States.
An estimated tripling of plastic production by 2060 looms, driving concerns over ocean pollution, health impacts, and climate change acceleration. While small island nations push for capping production, debates focus intensely on contentious issues such as chemical management and financial support for developing nations.
Amidst this backdrop, the U.S. pushes for treaty terms that avoid strict restrictions on its industry, favoring recycling solutions instead. Environmental advocates stress it's crucial for the accord to enforce meaningful production limits, as over a thousand delegates deliberate paths forward amidst mounting urgency.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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