Pacific Environment engages in international plastics treaty negotiations, including the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC), as an observer and advocate for a strong, legally binding treaty. We work alongside scientists, frontline and Indigenous communities, healthcare workers, waste pickers, environmental advocates and policymakers to advance solutions grounded in science, justice and real-world impact.
Our focus is on reducing plastic production, eliminating toxic chemicals and ensuring a just transition for the workers and communities most affected by plastic pollution.
In 2022, the U.N. Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2) adopted a historic resolution to develop an international legally binding agreement to address plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. These negotiations, led through the INC, bring governments together to craft a treaty addressing plastic across its full life cycle — from production to disposal.
Global leaders first convened in Busan, Republic of Korea, for INC-5. While the session did not produce a binding treaty, it demonstrated growing momentum. Global South regions, including Africa, GRULAC, and Pacific Island nations, proposed ambitious measures to reduce plastic production, and more than 100 countries signed a Declaration on Primary Plastic Polymers.
The fifth resumed session (INC-5.2), held in Geneva, continued negotiations but concluded without agreement on a global treaty. Core points of disagreement included production cuts, chemicals of concern, financing and decision-making rules. Many countries rejected revised treaty texts as too weak, and the process highlighted ongoing challenges such as influence from industry lobbyists. Despite these setbacks, INC 5.2 strengthened global understanding of plastic pollution’s health, environmental and economic impacts, and consensus continues around the need for a treaty that addresses the full life cycle of plastics.
The process is ongoing, with governments and stakeholders preparing for the next stage of negotiations. While a binding treaty has not yet been reached, the INC continues to shape international commitment to end plastic pollution worldwide. Pacific Environment remains engaged in the negotiations, advocating for ambitious, science-based solutions and representing the voices of communities worldwide.
Pacific Environment continues to advocate for a binding international agreement to tackle plastic pollution at every stage — from production to disposal. Our primary goals include:
Explore the global plastic pollution crisis, see how Pacific Environment is advancing solutions and discover ways to take action — including a shared manifesto for a future free from plastic pollution.
Follow along on social media for real-time updates, insights and ways to take action as we work toward a world free from plastic pollution. Let’s create change together — stay connected and be part of the conversation!