Countries unite to tackle global plastic pollution crisis
- Global plastic waste exceeds 50 million tonnes annually.
- Experts argue that four key policies could cut plastic pollution by 90%.
- Countries are in crucial negotiations for a binding treaty to tackle the crisis.
In Busan, South Korea, countries gathered to finalize a global treaty aimed at addressing the escalating crisis of plastic pollution. Currently, the world generates over 50 million tonnes of mismanaged plastic waste annually, a figure that researchers anticipate will double by 2050 if no action is taken. During the negotiations, experts emphasized the adoption of four key policies that could potentially reduce plastic pollution by 90%. These policies include setting a cap on plastic production, increasing investments in waste management, enhancing recycling systems, and reducing the use of single-use plastics. The success of these measures is crucial to mitigating the environmental and health impacts of plastic waste. Without a binding treaty, the future of plastic pollution remains uncertain, prompting advocates to call for urgent global cooperation.