Plastics Treaty: Will Developing Nations Have a Voice?

NGOs are criticizing the UN for not giving enough representation to key voices, especially those from developing nations, in upcoming negotiations for a Global Plastics Treaty. Environmentalists argue that it is crucial for people in developing countries, who often receive plastic waste from richer nations, to share their firsthand experiences with the issue. Marginalized populations on the frontlines of the plastics crisis are particularly affected by the negative impacts of plastics at all stages, from extraction to disposal. Poorer communities also suffer disproportionately from environmental contamination caused by improper waste management, dumping, or burning of plastic garbage. Last year, 193 countries agreed to end plastic pollution and create a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty by 2024. The UN Environment Programme will host the second round of negotiations starting May 29 in Paris. A new UN report estimates that reducing plastic pollution by 80% over the next two decades would prevent over $3 trillion in damages to global health, the environment, and climate. This episode of The Stream discusses proposed solutions and the stakes involved in the global plastics crisis. Guests include Andres Del Castillo, Senior Attorney at CIEL; Shilpi Chhotray, Co-founder and Executive Director of People Over Plastic; and Tiwonge Mzumara-Gawa, Partner and Campaigner at Tearfund Campaign.