Global treaty talks underway to curb plastic pollution as nations debate production limits versus recycling

Plastic pollution poses an urgent threat, with representatives of 175 nations meeting in Paris to negotiate a treaty to end plastic waste.
Reducing plastics production and banning single-use plastics are priorities, as plastics output has more than doubled in 20 years and is rising.
A U.N. report called for cutting plastic waste 80% by 2040 through reuse, recycling and alternative materials, but critics argue it's too soft on industry.
There are calls for a treaty including restrictions on hazardous chemicals in plastics and bans on problematic products, citing public health risks.
Saudi Arabia has dragged its feet, resisting ambitious measures like voting rules, as the world's petroleum giants push back on curbing plastics output.