Global Treaty on Plastic Pollution

The British Plastics Federation (BPF) looks forward to the resumed fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop an international legally binding instrument, taking place in Geneva from 5 to 14 August. The BPF hopes that this resumed session will see a conclusion of the INC process with a Treaty Text agreed by all participating countries. The BPF would like this to be an ambitious Treaty that covers the whole life cycle of plastics. 

Plastic has no place in the open environment and the BPF would like to see this Treaty deliver a circular economy and reduce plastic pollution globally. This is a huge global challenge and the BPF will support industry in playing its role within this to ensure an effective implementation of the Global Treaty. The BPF, however, would like to ensure that plastic continues to be used where it provides the best environmental outcome and offers clear benefits. Plastic has a strategically important role in vital infrastructure, such as the distribution of fresh food and water, in developing clean energy and in defence. Plastic prevents waste within the food supply chain and in people’s homes. Furthermore, plastic is contributing to reducing emissions and the Treaty needs to be impactful whilst not hampering the ability of the UK, and the world, to be innovative, achieve net zero and avoid the worst effects of climate change. 

The BPF will continue to provide every support required by the DEFRA team negotiating on behalf of the UK. Following a positive conclusion to the Treaty process, the BPF looks forward to the commencement of the Conference of Parties (COPs) to add detail to the Treaty text. 

Find out more about the INC negotiations: www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution