Context:
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recently raised an alarming red flag over the growing plastic pollution crisis in Southeast and East Asia. This alarming prediction comes at a crucial time as the final round of UN negotiations on global plastics treaty is set to take place in August 2025.
Current Situation:
The ASEAN Plus Three (APT) region, which includes the 10 ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam) along with China, Japan, and South Korea, is experiencing an unprecedented rise in plastic use.
· According to the OECD report, plastic consumption in this region is set to surge from 152 million tonnes in 2022 to 280 million tonnes by 2050 under current policies.
· This increase is primarily driven by packaging products, which make up the largest share of plastic usage.
Global Impact:
The report also highlights the significant contribution of the plastic lifecycle to greenhouse gas emissions. The ASEAN Plus Three region’s emissions from plastic production and waste management are projected to nearly double from 0.6 GtCO2e in 2022 to over 1 GtCO2e by 2050.
About Global Plastics Treaty:
The Global Plastics Treaty, officially titled "End Plastic Pollution: Towards an International Legally Binding Instrument", is a landmark international agreement under negotiation to tackle the escalating issue of plastic pollution.
The treaty aims to introduce legally binding measures to manage plastics throughout their entire lifecycle—from production to disposal—thus addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Objective:
The treaty seeks to end plastic pollution by 2040, promoting a circular economy for plastics. This involves a shift towards sustainable practices that emphasize responsible management across all stages of plastic use, including design, production, consumption, and disposal. By creating a circular system, the treaty aims to minimize plastic waste and reduce its environmental impact globally.
Focus Areas in Negotiations:
Discussions during the negotiation process focus on:
· Phasing out single-use plastics (such as straws, bags, and bottles).
· Establishing design requirements for recyclability to ensure that plastic products are easier to recycle and reuse.
· Creating a framework for international cooperation, especially given the transboundary nature of plastic pollution.
India's Position:
India, as one of the largest consumers and producers of plastics, plays a crucial role in the treaty's development. While it has not explicitly stated its position, India is likely to advocate for a balanced approach that considers both environmental protection and developmental needs. India's commitment to sustainable development goals (SDGs) and its growing role in global environmental governance will influence its position on the treaty.
Conclusion:
As the world prepares for the final round of UN negotiations on a global plastics treaty, the OECD’s report serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for action. Southeast and East Asia, home to over a third of global plastic leakage, must act decisively to address plastic pollution and safeguard both the environment and human health.
