Global plastics treaty 'drama' on a knife-edge over production caps

GENEVA (AN) — European Union officials warned global negotiations for a plastics treaty were at a pivotal moment, calling on nations to compromise to avoid the talks collapsing without a legally binding agreement.

The stark assessment on Tuesday came from Magnus Heunick, Denmark’s environment miniser, and Jessika Roswall, the European environment commissioner, who both emphasized the economic and political stakes of the negotiations involving more than 170 nations.

"There's going to be a whole lot more drama in the days to come. Because this is so important, it's crucial, and as we both have said, it is really difficult. We are investing in it politically," Heunick said.

The officials' comments highlighted the delicate balance between environmental ambition and the political pragmatism required to achieve a consensus that will shape the global economy's transition to a more circular model.

"Plastic production is increasing at an exponential rate," Heunick said, framing the issue as not only an environmental challenge but a significant market signal. He stressed the need for a global, legally binding solution to provide a clear framework for businesses and investors.

Roswall underscored this point, noting that an effective treaty would provide a powerful signal to global markets. "Businesses across borders need a clear global framework for their activities," she said. "The world is already moving towards a modern, competitive, and circular economy."

Roswall cautioned the E.U. would not accept a deal "at any cost," but maintained that the bloc was ready to "build bridges" to reach an ambitious outcome. The officials also did not rule out walking out of the negotiations.

"Of course, we are here from the E.U. to make a deal," said Heunick. "But if you are looking for drama, I think I would advise you to stay here, because a lot more drama is going to happen. But our goal is this drama should end up in a deal."

The E.U.’s position is ambitious, seeking to address the entire lifecycle of plastic, including production. However, this has met with resistance from some countries and industry groups. When questioned by reporters on the prospect of a production cap, the officials were careful not to reveal their negotiating tactics.

"If we all stick to our red lines then a deal is impossible," Heunick said, signaling that the E.U., like other parties, may have to make concessions to secure a final text. He added that a failed deal would leave all parties "worse off."

The final round of negotiations in Geneva is seen as a crucial test of global cooperation on environmental policy. A successful treaty would set new standards for businesses worldwide, while a failure to agree could lead to a patchwork of national regulations, creating market uncertainty.

Scientists and advocacy groups weigh in

With virtually of the negotiations happening behind closed doors, reporters packed a conference room to hear from the Scientists' Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty, which outlined the dangers of plastic pollution. The talks have also drawn the attention of environmental groups like Surfrider Foundation Europe, which are concerned about specific provisions within the treaty.

Surfrider and other organizations urged the E.U. to reject a model of "extended producer responsibility" for tobacco products that is already in use in France and Spain. This model, funded and managed by the tobacco industry itself, is seen as "ineffective and harmful to both public health and the environment."

The groups argue that these schemes give the tobacco industry "institutional legitimacy" and promote "greenwashing," while failing to reduce pollution from billions of cigarette filters discarded each year. They also point out applying such a model to tobacco products runs counter to the principles of a circular economy.