At the fifth meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) in Busan, South Korea, the UN Chief urges to end plastic pollution by advocating for a comprehensive and legally enforceable global agreement that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastics. Secretary-General António Guterres underlined concerning figures, such as the 460 million tonnes of plastic produced each year, and estimates that the oceans may contain more plastic than fish by 2050 while speaking on the eve of crucial discussions.

Guterres issued a dire warning about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on the environment and human health, pointing out that human bloodstreams contain microplastics. “We’re only just beginning to understand. We must transform our consumption and production patterns,” he said.

He listed the main objectives of the treaty, which include lowering the use of single-use plastics, improving waste management systems, and encouraging sustainable alternatives, all the while guaranteeing assistance for marginalised groups such as waste pickers.

UN Chief Urges to End Plastic Pollution With Urgent Actions

With the recently established Pact for the Future as a boost, the goal of the discussions in Busan is to complete a legally binding document by the end of the year. This is a historic chance to fight plastic pollution, according to Guterres. “For too long, we have kicked the plastic bottle down the road. Today, we have a historic opportunity to start building a world free of plastic pollution and waste,” he said.

He emphasized the need for fair solutions for vulnerable groups engaged in recycling initiatives and pushed negotiators to complete a treaty addressing waste management, sustainable alternatives, and single-use plastics. The UN Chief urges to end plastic pollution as an urgent global priority, underscoring the necessity of collective action to tackle this escalating crisis.

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Cooperative Leadership and Broader Global Challenges

Guterres gave a special speech at the International Cooperative Alliance Global Conference in New Delhi that same day, highlighting the importance of cooperatives in sustainable development. “Cooperatives build a better world,” he said, highlighting their efforts to fight poverty, improve food security, and empower businesses.

In addition, Guterres praised Cambodia’s leadership in mine clearing and peacekeeping operations during a conference in Siem Reap, Cambodia, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Convention on the Prohibition of Anti-Personnel Mines. He called for a renewed commitment to attaining a world free of anti-personnel mines, even though more than 55 million mines had been eliminated in 60 nations. “A world without anti-personnel mines is not just possible. It is within reach,” he claimed.

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