Global issues require global solutions. This is why PlasticsEurope, the Pan-European trade association representing plastics manufacturers, supports a global framework for plastics aiming at reducing plastic waste in any environment. We cannot stress it enough - plastic waste is unacceptable in any habitat and this is plastics industry’s top priority at all times.

We believe the following five elements are essential to enable a global framework addressing plastic waste:

1.A clear vision, objective and transparent reporting requirements

PlasticsEurope supports the Osaka Blue Ocean Vision to achieve zero discharge of plastic waste entering the marine environment by 2050. Binding and transparent reporting requirements are decisive for tracking and assessing progress made.

2.Transitioning to a circular economy for plastics and promoting innovation

Support new system developments, design innovation, boost new business models and build capacity for the environmentally sound waste management of plastic waste.

3.Recognising, encouraging and scaling up existing multilateral efforts and voluntary initiatives

This is crucial to enable rapid scaling of innovations and investments to address marine plastic litter, while avoiding duplication.

4. A flexible and transparent governance model is vital to successfully implement a global framework at regional and national scale.

5. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes are pivotal to financing and incentivising a circular economy for plastics.

Virginia Janssens, Managing Director of PlasticsEurope, said: “We acknowledge the legitimate concerns and calls to reduce plastic pollution. Our commitment as an industry is to focus on ensuring that plastics continue to deliver societal benefits while having a positive impact on the environment. By working hand in hand with all relevant parties, we can develop a collective blueprint to accelerate our transformation to a more sustainable future. We are determined to implement long-lasting positive change.”

Our industry is harnessing the power of innovation and technology to significantly increase reuse and recycling. This comprises investments in mechanical and chemical recycling that are currently ongoing with joint partnerships across the plastic value chain partners. Such innovations include turning plastic waste into cheese packaging and fridge components (BASF), construction materials for schools (Dow), and a pilot molecular recycling facility in Italy (LyondellBasell), amongst others.

We welcome the opportunity to have an exchange with WWF, Ellen MacArthur Foundation and Boston Consulting Group on their joint Report “The Business Case for a UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution” and offer our scientific expertise to find workable solutions.