What's Happening?
The UN Global Plastics Treaty negotiations concluded without reaching a formal decision during the session held from August 5-14, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland. The talks aimed to finalize a legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution but adjourned without agreement. Key unresolved issues included the scope and ambition of the treaty, particularly measures on plastic production, chemicals of concern, and the design of a finance mechanism. Countries compromised to exclude upstream measures, making it challenging to include key extraction or production reduction measures in the draft treaty. The next meeting will be held at a later date.
Why It's Important?
The failure to reach an agreement on the UN Global Plastics Treaty highlights the complexities involved in addressing global plastic pollution. The treaty's ambition and effectiveness could be improved through stronger binding measures to address the full lifecycle of plastics. A binding treaty would ensure consistent application globally, providing a more equal playing field for private sector entities. The treaty could also be strengthened by identifying links and co-benefits with climate and biodiversity finance, and by including measures to ensure the assessment and disclosure of corporate plastic-related risks and opportunities.
What's Next?
Talks will resume at a later date and location yet to be announced. The financial sector statement provides a strong signal to member states, recognizing the private financial sector's crucial role in addressing the root causes of plastic pollution and enabling a sustainable, safe, and just circular plastics economy.
