Global Plastics Treaty

Voluntary approaches towards plastics have failed and existing global policy tools are insufficient and fragmented. Preventing plastic pollution requires a Convention (Treaty) on Plastic Pollution that addresses the full lifecycle of plastics from upstream (production) and midstream (design) to downstream (waste management) stages. We need a Global Plastics Treaty that builds upon and complements existing EU initiatives while addressing the significant gaps that prevent us from eliminating plastic pollution.

The treaty work brings together various strands of activity related to plastic pollution from product design to financing, toxics, plastic production, waste management and more. If designed well, a global plastics treaty will set the stage for coordinated and ambitious action to end plastic pollution. So far our work has involved harnessing the global Break Free From Plastic (BFFP) movement and wider civil society, progressive business and the scientific community to influence the journey towards a treaty. Efforts from civil society were critical for securing the mandate to negotiate a new plastic treaty in March 2022 at the 5th United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2). Moving forwards, robust civil society participation and empowerment will continue to influence the Global Plastics Treaty negotiation process.

We are working to secure an international legally binding instrument to prevent, reduce and ultimately eliminate plastic pollution across the full lifecycle of plastics. We work in international policy fora and beyond to influence decisions and outcomes, and ensure countries, particularly in the Global South, have their voices heard throughout the process. 

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