Open Letter

Calling for a strong Global Plastic Treaty that cuts plastic production

We, the undersigned,

Support the creation of a truly ambitious, legally binding Global Plastics Treaty, that seeks to end plastic pollution across the full lifecycle of plastics and to reduce plastic production. We know this is essential if we are to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees celsius and protect biodiversity.

We believe a new system, one that operates within planetary boundaries, is possible and that a strong Treaty can accelerate a just transition towards it.

Scientists have already sounded the alarm that plastic pollution has ‘exceeded safe planetary boundaries’, and is threatening the stability of our planet. Moreover if we carry on with business as usual, it’s estimated that by 2040 we will see the amount of plastic entering rivers and oceans tripling and plastic accounting for 19 percent of the total carbon budget¹. This situation, combined with growing adverse health and livelihood effects experienced by people worldwide, necessitates bold measures. We believe that a truly ambitious Treaty is one that addresses the root causes of plastic pollution and spurs a shift away from single use towards reuse models that do not rely on fossil fuel based materials.

We support the High Ambition Coalition’s commitment to end plastic pollution by 2040 and are calling on all governments to secure a Global Plastics Treaty that prioritizes the following areas:

A CAP ON PLASTIC PRODUCTION,

against a historic baseline, and setting of ambitious annual reduction targets that limit global warming to 1.5 degrees and protect biodiversity.

A PHASE OUT OF SINGLE USE PLASTICS

starting with bans on the worst offending items such as plastic sachets. In addition, highly problematic polymers and chemicals must be eliminated.

TARGETS FOR REUSE

systems to drive uptake at societal scales, that are supported by globally harmonized reuse standards and funding.

A JUSTICE focused approach

that centers the rights of communities most impacted by plastic pollution and supports a just transition².

To be impactful, these areas must have binding global targets and timelines that respect planetary boundaries, human health and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, and be applicable across sectors. Furthermore it must ensure transparency on progress against targets - and mandate reporting on plastic reduction by big businesses as well as countries.

By supporting an ambitious Treaty, we are committed to endorsing, creating and driving truly circular solutions that follow the zero waste hierarchy, prioritizing reduction and reuse (including repair, refurbishment and remanufacture), and to working collaboratively to implement the Treaty.

SIGN THE OPEN LETTER

TRANSLATIONS:

1 Refers to total plastic life cycle - ie its production use and disposal. Source

2 Upholding and centring the rights of Indigenous Peoples and impacted communities including but not limited to the disability community, fenceline communities, the informal waste sector, communities experiencing significant negative impacts to livelihood or human health associated with plastic production or pollution.

Get to know the supporters

The treaty is currently being negotiated with the aim to have a final treaty text by the end of 2024. However, the treaty is at risk as fossil fuel interests try to derail and weaken the process.

It’s vital for businesses around the world to stand up and demonstrate how a future free from plastic pollution is possible.

THE ENDORSERS