Negotiations to establish a legally binding global treaty on plastic pollution have resumed in Geneva from August 4 to 15, 2025, following last year’s unsuccessful attempt to reach an agreement. Delegates from nearly 180 countries are engaged in discussions aimed at curbing the millions of tonnes of plastic waste generated annually by targeting all stages of the plastic lifecycle—from design and production to disposal.
Despite widespread recognition of the urgent need to address plastic pollution, the talks are marked by significant divisions. A coalition of countries, including Norway, Rwanda, Canada, and several European nations, is pushing for strong, enforceable targets that would reduce plastic production and phase out harmful chemicals. In contrast, major oil and plastic producers such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, China, India, and Iran oppose production caps, favoring voluntary commitments and a focus on recycling and waste management to protect their economic interests.
Further disagreements center on the treaty’s scope, with some nations insisting on comprehensive coverage of the entire plastic lifecycle, while others advocate limiting regulations to downstream waste management. Financing remains another contested issue, as developing countries call for substantial financial and technological support to meet ambitious treaty obligations, while wealthier nations express reluctance to commit major funds without clearer agreements on rules and enforcement mechanisms. Procedural challenges, including rules for decision-making, inclusion of Indigenous and Global South voices, and the influence of fossil fuel industry lobbying, have also complicated negotiations.
The upcoming Geneva talks, considered the final stage before formal adoption of the treaty, are critical. Failure to reach a robust, enforceable agreement could result in continued growth of plastic production and pollution, with severe environmental, health, and economic consequences projected by 2040. Vulnerable communities and developing nations stand to bear disproportionate impacts if an effective global framework is not established.