A gathering of sixty-seven ministers, part of the High Ambition Coalition (HAC) to End Plastic Pollution, took place recently in Busan, South Korea, during the fifth and final session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5). This coalition, which includes Fiji, reaffirmed their unified commitment to protect human health and the environment from the debilitating effects of plastic pollution.
In their joint statement, the HAC ministers emphasized the importance of finalizing negotiations on a robust treaty that comprehensively addresses the entire lifecycle of plastics. This is in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the UN Environmental Assessment Resolution 5/14. They expressed appreciation for the positive contributions made by most INC members to the discussions and encouraged all participants to elevate their efforts in line with global expectations.
The coalition underlined the urgency of developing legally binding global rules to combat the economic, social, cultural, and environmental impacts of plastic pollution, particularly affecting developing nations, Least Developed Countries, and Small Island Developing States. They stressed that such regulations are crucial for fostering a sustainable and circular economy, ensuring a level playing field for businesses, and supporting job creation and economic growth while advancing health and sustainability.
To achieve the ambitious target of eradicating plastic pollution by 2040, the ministers underscored the necessity of implementing mechanisms that allow for the ongoing assessment, review, and strengthening of the treaty. This would include the capability to adapt to new scientific evidence and emerging threats posed by plastic pollution.
In conclusion, the commitment expressed by the HAC ministers exemplifies a collective step forward toward a cleaner, healthier planet. With shared goals in place, there is hope that collaborative efforts will lead to significant reductions in plastic waste and promote sustainable practices for future generations.
Summary: The High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, comprising sixty-seven ministers including representatives from Fiji, has reinforced their commitment to finalizing an effective treaty to tackle plastic pollution, aiming for completion by 2040. During their recent meeting in South Korea, they emphasized legally binding global rules to combat the issue, particularly in marginalized countries, while also calling for adaptive mechanisms to continuously improve the treaty in response to new challenges.
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