The fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) on plastic pollution has commenced in Ottawa, Canada, with a pivotal objective: to refine the draft treaty text for finalization at INC-5 in November 2024. This gathering represents a crucial juncture in the global effort to combat the escalating crisis of plastic pollution, building on the momentum initiated by the UN Environment Assembly’s historic resolution in March 2022.
The scope of the treaty is ambitious, aiming to address the entire life cycle of plastic, encompassing production, design, and disposal. Since its inception in late 2022, the INC has undertaken the arduous task of navigating diverse perspectives and interests from participating nations and stakeholders. Previous sessions held in Uruguay, France, and Kenya laid the groundwork, highlighting key issues and diverging views that continue to shape the negotiations.
At the forefront of discussions are pressing matters such as the elimination of problematic single-use plastics, the reduction of plastic production, and the inclusion of binding targets. While there is growing consensus on phasing out unnecessary single-use plastics, disparities persist regarding the extent of production cuts and the enforceability of targets. Notably, the disclosure of plastic production volumes and chemicals used by companies remains a contentious point, reflecting the delicate balance between environmental stewardship and economic considerations.
Amidst these deliberations, opposition from the petrochemical industry and certain oil-producing nations underscores the challenges in regulating plastic production. However, there is a recognition of the imperative to confront the plastic pollution crisis comprehensively, transcending geopolitical interests for the collective well-being of the planet.
Despite the complexities, signs of progress are evident. The acknowledgment of plastics’ essential role in specific sectors, such as renewable energy, underscores the need for a nuanced approach that balances environmental protection with practical considerations. As negotiations unfold in Ottawa, INC-4 faces the task of reconciling divergent viewpoints and charting a course towards a consensus-based agreement.
Looking ahead, INC-5 in Busan, South Korea, slated for November-December 2024, is envisioned as the culmination of the negotiation process. Following its conclusion, a Diplomatic Conference for Heads of State will convene to sign the agreement, signaling a landmark achievement in global environmental governance.
The INC-4 meeting in Ottawa represents a critical milestone in the journey towards a comprehensive global treaty on plastic pollution. As delegates engage in deliberations, the world watches with anticipation, recognizing the significance of this endeavor in shaping a sustainable future for generations to come.