INTERGOVERNMENTAL NEGOTIATING COMMITTEE (INC-5): CHARTING THE COURSE FOR A GLOBAL PLASTICS TREATY

Environment & Ecology


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 27-Nov-2024

Why in the News?

The fifth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) convened in Busan, South Korea, marks a critical moment in global efforts to address plastic pollution. Key discussions center around a legally binding treaty to combat plastic pollution across its lifecycle. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for ambitious action, emphasizing the urgency of tackling the escalating plastic crisis.

Highlights of INC-5 and Preparatory Activities

  • Public Mobilization:Thousands marched in Busan on November 23–24, emphasizing strong global support for a robust plastics treaty. Participants formed a human sign reading "END PLASTIC."
  • Engagement of Financial and Business Stakeholders:At a World Economic Forum side event, financiers discussed funding mechanisms for circular plastic economies. Alliance to End Plastic Waste highlighted opportunities for investments even before treaty mechanisms are finalized.
  • Scientific and Academic Contributions: Over 900 scientists urged the UN to base treaty deliberations on strong scientific evidence. Key recommendations include capping plastic production and eliminating subsidies contributing to waste colonialism.
  • Plenary and Negotiations:
    • Day 1 saw discussions on using the third version of the non-paper for negotiations, though members like Russia and Saudi Arabia raised concerns about omissions. Contact groups deliberated specific text changes.
    • India’s intervention ensured decisions at INC-5 would be based on consensus, gathering support from plastic-producing nations.
  • Key Statistics Highlighted
    • Plastic Production: 460 million tons annually, projected to outweigh fish in oceans by 2050.
    • Microplastics: Traces detected in human bloodstreams, posing emerging health risks.
  • Leadership Statements:
    • UNEP’s Inger Andersen emphasized that INC-5 should transcend waste treaties, aiming for higher environmental standards.
    • Guterres highlighted the need for a treaty to cover the entire lifecycle of plastics, reduce single-use plastics, and support vulnerable communities like waste pickers.

Just Transition:

  • The concept of a “just transition” represents a socio-economic framework designed to guide the shift away from plastic-dependent industries toward sustainable alternatives while ensuring equity and inclusivity.
  • This approach addresses the social and economic impacts of the transition, such as job losses and economic disruptions, by offering support to affected workers and communities.
  • It places particular emphasis on marginalised or vulnerable groups, including informal waste workers, ensuring they are not disproportionately affected by industry changes.
  • Key elements of a just transition includes:
    • Retraining and upskilling programs to enable workers to find employment in emerging green sectors such as renewable energy, recycling, and sustainable packaging.
    • Investments in alternative industries create new job opportunities and contribute to broader economic development.