UN Plastic Treaty Talks Stall Over Key Disagreements

Negotiations in Busan ended without an agreement as nations remain divided on production limits, financial support, and chemical regulations.

The United Nations-backed talks on a global treaty to combat plastic pollution concluded in Busan, South Korea, without reaching an agreement.
Key sticking points include disagreements over capping plastic production, regulating harmful chemicals, and funding support for developing countries to transition to sustainable practices.
A coalition of over 95 nations supports binding measures to address plastic pollution across its life cycle, while major oil-producing countries push for voluntary measures focused on recycling and waste management.
Informal waste pickers, critical to global recycling efforts, are advocating for recognition in treaty provisions to ensure fair treatment and improved working conditions within a circular economy framework.
The next round of treaty negotiations is scheduled for mid-2025, with progress made in Busan forming the foundation for future discussions.