INC-5 Lays Groundwork for Plastic Treaty Success
A few days after the conclusion of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee’s fifth session (INC-5) in Busan, South Korea, there is renewed hope that we are making progress to curb plastic pollution. While the negotiations did not result in a finalised treaty, significant progress was made. Countries like Panama, Rwanda, and Norway, along with over 100 other nations, have stepped up to call for a legally binding agreement to limit plastic production, addressing toxic additives, and reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based plastics. This group of nations shows a growing understanding of the urgent need to tackle plastic pollution effectively. The discussions will continue in 2025 during INC-5.2, where further negotiations will aim to finalise a comprehensive treaty addressing plastic pollution.
Organisations such as WWF and Greenpeace have played key roles in supporting these efforts. They provide essential resources and advocacy to keep environmental issues at the forefront of discussions. Their commitment to sustainability helps amplify the voices of countries working for meaningful change, proving that teamwork is vital in this global challenge.
Some of the challenging discussion points are the different views on how to move forward. Nations like Saudi Arabia and Iran prefer to focus on managing plastic waste instead of limiting production. It boils down to the question of how to prioritise economic interests tied to plastic production over environmental concerns. Even though the material transition offers great economic opportunities too.
Despite these challenges, many countries are taking steps to ban specific plastic products. For example, Canada has introduced a ban on several types of single-use plastics, including takeaway containers and cutlery. The UK has also implemented bans on plastic straws and stirrers. New Zealand has banned certain types of takeaway containers made from non-biodegradable materials, and the European Union has enacted regulations targeting various single-use items including food containers made from expanded polystyrene. Some warn that banning plastic may alienate public support if no equally convenient and affordable solutions are offered at the same time. That is why it is so important to innovate and find material to substitute plastics, offering the same benefits but without the pollution.
This is where Solinatra comes in. Solinatra developed a fully realised alternative to plastics.
Solinatra materials are:
- Plastic-free, zero-microplastics
- 100% natural and plant-based
- Fully compostable and biodegradable
- Scalable and compatible with existing manufacturing systems
Using this material, businesses can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and combat plastic pollution without compromising efficiency or quality. And consumers have a worthy alternative in case of bans or taxes on plastics.
As we look ahead to future negotiations and continued collaboration among nations, we remain dedicated to supporting practices that promote a healthy environment. Together, we can build a future where sustainable solutions are not just dreams but achievable goals and leave behind a healthy planet for our children.