Global Plastics Negotiations
Nearly 100 countries advocated for an ambitious agreement on global plastics negotiations at the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, in June 2023. The initiative, termed the "Nice Wake Up Call for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty," aims to address the failure to establish a legally binding plastics treaty in Busan, South Korea, in December 2022.
- Key Focus: The initiative seeks to move beyond mere waste management and recycling, emphasizing the reduction of plastics production and consumption.
- Goal: Convincing countries that oppose the treaty to reconsider their positions.
India's Position
India, despite being a major plastic polluter, did not sign the "wake-up call." However, Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, supported a legally binding treaty.
- Economic Consideration: India argued that limiting primary plastic polymer production could impede economic growth.
- Industry Snapshot:
- Estimated worth: $44 billion.
- Employment: Over 4 million people.
- Export revenue (2024): $11 billion.
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of plastic waste in India is severe, with 9.3 million tonnes generated annually, of which 3.5 million tonnes leak into the environment.
- Challenges:
- Rising consumerism and demand for single-use plastics exacerbate the problem.
- Efforts since 2016, like the Plastic Waste Management Rules, have been hindered by inadequate infrastructure and the informal nature of recycling.
- Regulations: Companies must use at least 30% recycled plastic in packaging from April 2024, a challenging transition due to limited authorized plants and inefficient informal sector recycling.
Public Health Crisis
Plastic pollution poses a significant public health risk, contaminating drinking water, harming livestock and marine life, and clogging natural waterways.
- Solution: A realistic, time-bound plan for reducing plastic production could facilitate industry transition and mitigate the crisis.