Geneva talks spark renewed momentum for global treaty on plastic pollution

Tuesday 05 August 2025 - 16:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Geneva talks spark renewed momentum for global treaty on plastic pollution

Delegates from around the world have gathered in Geneva for a critical round of United Nations-led negotiations aimed at crafting a legally binding treaty to combat plastic pollution. Hosted by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the discussions represent a major attempt to overcome the divisions that derailed last year’s talks in Busan, South Korea.

A renewed push for global unity

The Geneva negotiations come at a time when over 400 million tons of plastic are produced annually, half of it for single-use purposes, with severe consequences for ecosystems and human health. UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen emphasized the urgency of the moment, stating that extensive diplomacy since Busan has set the stage for progress. “Most countries are arriving here ready to strike the deal,” Andersen said.

Key issues on the table include capping plastic production, banning hazardous chemicals, and securing financial support for countries transitioning away from fossil fuel-based plastics. These measures aim to address the root causes of the plastic crisis, not just its symptoms.

Symbolic and diplomatic efforts

Outside the UN venue, Canadian artist Benjamin Von Wong has created a striking visual statement by submerging a replica of Rodin’s The Thinker in plastic waste. The display underscores the urgency of tackling the toxic chemicals infiltrating the environment. “To protect health, we must rethink the materials we produce and their impact,” Von Wong said.

Ecuadorian diplomat Luis Vayas Valdivieso, chairing the negotiations, acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed hope for a unified outcome. “Though our paths may differ, our shared destination is a world free from plastic pollution,” he said.

Calls for bold action

More than 600 NGOs are present at the talks, with environmental groups urging ambitious action. Greenpeace’s Graham Forbes emphasized the need to go beyond waste management, calling for a fundamental reduction in plastic production. “We cannot let a handful of countries dictate humanity’s future,” Forbes warned.

The negotiations in Geneva are seen as a decisive step toward meeting the UN’s 2025 deadline for finalizing the treaty. With stakes high and time running out, the global community is racing to secure a future less burdened by plastic pollution.