Stalemate in Global Plastics Treaty Talks Raises Calls for Alternative Paths

The latest round of UN-led negotiations in Geneva to craft a binding plastics treaty collapsed after nearly two weeks, as major producers—including the U.S. and Gulf states—rejected caps on plastic output. These countries argue the treaty should focus solely on waste management, while others push for limits across the full lifecycle of plastics.

Civil society groups and several governments are now urging negotiators to reconsider the consensus rule, which allows one nation to block progress. Some propose a “coalition of the willing,” potentially led by the EU and California, to establish standards that could evolve into global norms.

In a notable shift, China—the world’s largest producer of virgin plastics—backed a lifecycle approach, setting it apart from other major exporters and injecting fresh momentum into talks. With plastic production expected to triple by 2060, experts warn that delaying action deepens climate, health, and equity risks while pollution continues to escalate.

26-08-2025