We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Act boldly or fail: Academic perspectives at a pivotal moment in global plastics treaty negotiations
AI summary Read the abstract
This editorial introduced a collection of letters calling for a legally binding global plastics treaty ahead of INC-5.2 negotiations, emphasizing the need for systemic, science-based, and justice-oriented approaches that address the full lifecycle of plastic production and disposal.
Abstract As governments prepare for the resumed session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution (INC-5.2), the urgency of agreeing on a legally binding global plastics treaty is more pressing than ever. This editorial introduces a collection of letters calling for systemic, science-based, and justice-oriented approaches to plastic governance delivered through an ambitious and effective global plastics treaty. The letters span environmental, health, and social disciplines, and highlight the shortcomings of fragmented policy and assert the need for coordinated and binding action. The letters advocate for reducing plastic production, implementing restrictions on toxic chemicals, incorporating the structural inclusion of affected communities, and ensuring robust scientific oversight. Taken together, the collection of letters reflects the scientific and ethical imperatives to act decisively in shaping a transformative and enforceable plastics treaty.
More Papers Like This
The time for ambitious action is now: Science-based recommendations for plastic chemicals to inform an effective global plastic treaty.
AI summary Read the abstract
A broad scientific review made the case for ambitious global action on plastic pollution, cataloguing the more than 16,000 chemicals in plastics — including many known toxins — and their potential to leach into food, water, and the environment. The authors argue that the scale of chemical risk from plastics justifies sweeping regulatory action on both production and chemical content.
Scientific challenges of plastic pollution treaty
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the scientific challenges surrounding the development of an international legally binding treaty on plastic pollution, as called for by UNEA Resolution 5/14, highlighting gaps in terminology, polymer science knowledge, and cross-disciplinary collaboration needed to address marine plastic waste effectively.
We need a global agreement to safeguard human health from plastic pollution
AI summary Read the abstract
This commentary argues that unresolved disagreements among member states are hindering progress toward a UN global plastics treaty that could protect human and environmental health. The authors call for resolution of key disputes to advance international governance of plastic pollution across the full lifecycle.
A transdisciplinary approach to reducing global plastic pollution
AI summary Read the abstract
This opinion piece advocates for a transdisciplinary approach to reducing global plastic pollution, emphasizing the need to integrate natural science, social science, governance, and industry perspectives to develop effective and equitable solutions to the plastic pollution crisis.
Desafios e perspectivas no enfrentamento da poluição marinha por plástico sob a ótica das negociações do acordo global juridicamente vinculante
AI summary Read the abstract
This research examined the prospects for tackling marine plastic pollution through negotiations on a globally legally binding plastic agreement under UNEP auspices. The study concluded that while the treaty represents a significant advance over existing fragmented frameworks, significant challenges remain due to contradictory options in the draft text and difficulties reaching global consensus on binding provisions.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.