Despite the intense discussions, delegates recognized that more time was needed to resolve differing views and finalize the treaty framework.
the sessionbegan on November 25, bringing together more than 3,300 participants, including representatives from more than 170 countries and more than 440 observer organizations.
The delegates agreed on “Document of the President” prepared by Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) President, Ambassador Luis Vaya Valdivieso of Ecuador, will serve as a basis for future negotiations.
The commitment is clear and undeniable
Speaking at the closing of the session, Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), acknowledges the progress that has been made while emphasizing the challenges that remain.
“The world’s commitment to ending plastic pollution is clear and undeniable. In Busan, negotiations brought us closer to agreeing a global legally binding treaty to protect our health, environment and future from the onslaught of pollution. plastic contamination,” she said. speak.
She emphasized that “good progress” had been made in Busan, however, she added that “persistent differences” remained in key areas.
“Negotiators reached a higher level of consensus on the structure and elements of the treaty text, as well as a better understanding of countries’ perspectives and common challenges. But it is clear that differences remain in important areas and more time is needed to address these areas.”
INC will continue discussions in 2025 but the location has not yet been announced.
An ambitious task takes time
INC Chairman Vayas emphasized that the mandate of the INC Commission “has always been ambitious”.
“But ambitions take time to land. We have many of the elements we need and Busan has put us firmly on the path to success,” He speak.
“I call on all delegations to continue paving roads, building bridges and engaging in dialogue…let us always remember that our purpose is noble and urgent: to reverse and overcome the serious impacts of plastic pollution on ecosystems and human health,”
A common problem
plastic pollution remains a major global challenge.
Every day, the equivalent of 2,000 garbage trucks full of plastic are dumped into the world’s oceans, rivers and lakes, posing serious risks to wildlife and human health. Microplastics have been found in food, water, soil and even in human organs and the placenta of newborn babies.
The treaty was authorized by the United Nations Environment Council in 2022 resolutionseeks to address the entire life cycle of plastics, including their production, design and disposal, through an internationally legally binding instrument.
