Manila: The Philippines has taken a significant step in the global fight against plastic pollution by signing an international declaration alongside 94 other nations. This collective effort calls for the establishment of an effective treaty aimed at ending the widespread issue of plastic pollution.
According to Philippines News Agency, the joint declaration, known as the 'Nice Call for an Ambitious Treaty on Plastic Pollution,' was unveiled during the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice, France. The declaration, launched on the conference's second day, advocates for a 'global target' to curtail the production and consumption of primary plastic polymers. It also emphasizes the need for legally-binding commitments to phase out problematic plastic products and chemicals, while improving plastic product designs to minimize environmental impact.
French officials have hailed the declaration as a major diplomatic milestone, particularly as it comes just weeks before a critical negotiating session on the plastics treaty is set to begin in Geneva. Agn¨s Pannier-Runacher, French Minister for Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, Forestry, Sea and Fisheries, expressed her approval of the widespread support, highlighting the strong unified message being sent to the world.
The call for an ambitious treaty aligns with the resolution adopted at the Fifth United Nations Environment Assembly in March 2022. This landmark resolution set the stage for negotiating a global treaty to combat plastic pollution, focusing on a comprehensive approach covering the entire life cycle of plastics. Negotiations are scheduled to resume in Geneva, Switzerland, from August 5 to 14, 2025, following initial sessions in Uruguay, France, Kenya, Canada, and South Korea.
The 'Nice Call' has garnered support from a diverse group of countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Canada, Chile, the European Union, New Zealand, Norway, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, and many others. This broad coalition reflects the global consensus on the urgent need to address plastic pollution and the commitment of countries worldwide to work towards sustainable solutions.
