Finding the solution to plastic pollution

We’ve come to the end of another plastic-free July. How did you go in trying to eliminate plastic from your day-to-day life? We can all agree that it’s not easy.

One of the main problems is there are just not many easy non-plastic options when it comes to buying our regular staples. Too many companies are still using plastic packaging for the products we regularly buy.

We have all heard the messaging—plastic pollution impacts our oceans, wildlife, and even our own health. But now, some good news! Amidst the headlines, there’s a growing movement filled with hope and innovation. It seems the world is finally coming together to tackle plastic pollution.

In 2022, the UN Environment Assembly called for a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution. This international effort signifies a major step forward. It recognises that plastic pollution requires collective action, and nations are now uniting to take that action.

The global treaty on plastic pollution will:

• establish legally binding rules to encourage investment and innovation in solutions
• focus on circular economy principles by reducing plastic use, increasing reuse, and redesigning packaging
• prioritise plastic packaging as a major source of pollution
• ensure fairness by supporting countries with developing economies through a just transition and providing necessary assistance.

The fourth session of the Intergovernmental Committee on plastic pollution, held in April 2024, made significant progress towards developing the treaty, with the fifth and final session to be held in November. So, stay tuned!

By sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, we can accelerate progress. It’s clear the international community is committed to addressing the plastic pollution crisis, and the progress made thus far is a positive sign that a global solution is within reach.

So, keep doing what you’re doing! Individuals continue to play a crucial role by making informed choices—opting for eco-friendly products and demanding transparency from brands is working to drive meaningful change.

This is a call to action for everyone. Here’s a reminder of some ways you can contribute:

• Support businesses and organisations committed to sustainability. From biodegradable packaging to advanced recycling technologies, pioneers are rethinking the way we use and manage plastic. 
• Choose reusable products whenever possible.
• Talk with others about the plastic problem and ways to reduce plastic use.
• Advocate for policies that promote plastic reduction and recycling.
• Join Glimmer and share your own stories of how you’re going in your journey to zero plastic.

While the challenges remain significant, there’s a wave of positive momentum. The world is embracing innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to a cleaner future. By working together, we can create a world where plastic pollution is a thing of the past.

Sources:

A UN treaty to end plastic pollution. https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/un-plastics-treaty/overview

Historic day in the campaign to beat plastic pollution: Nations commit to develop a legally binding agreement. https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/historic-day-campaign-beat-plastic-pollution-nations-commit-develop

United Nations Environment Programme. Report of the intergovernmental negotiating committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, on the work of its fourth session. https://wedocs.unep.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.11822/45872/INC4_Report.pdf