We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Strengthen the Global Science and Knowledge Base to Reduce Marine Plastic Pollution
Summary
This paper argues for strengthening the science and knowledge base to inform a potential global agreement on plastic pollution, calling for a new scientific advisory mechanism to support international negotiations. A stronger evidence base on microplastic sources, impacts, and solutions is seen as critical to achieving effective global policy.
States are on the brink to start negotiations on a global agreement on plastic pollution. In this context, scientists, policymakers and stakeholders voiced requests for strengthening and improving the knowledge base. These requests often include demands for a scientific advisory mechanism or body that operates as two-way interface between science and policy and that informs policy- and decision-making in the global combat against plastic waste in the oceans and the need for a life cycle approach to marine plastic pollution that covers all stages in the plastics life cycle. The report makes the case for a global scientific mechanism on marine litter and microplastics and discusses the conditions to make it work effectively and to enable it to strengthen the global science and knowledge base on marine litter and microplastics.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Addressing Microplastics in a Global Agreement on Plastic Pollution
This report examines how microplastics could be addressed under a proposed global agreement to end plastic pollution, analyzing existing regional and national regulatory measures and proposing potential measures and modalities for a science-policy interface on microplastic pollution. Researchers found that different measures are required to address various sources and pathways of microplastics, and drew lessons from existing multilateral environmental agreements to inform negotiations in the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee.
Addressing Microplastic Pollution via the Global Plastic Treaty
This paper discusses the role of the global plastic treaty in addressing microplastic pollution, evaluating policy mechanisms, international governance challenges, and the scientific evidence needed to support binding reduction targets.
Why we need an international agreement on marine plastic pollution
This commentary argues for the establishment of an international agreement to address marine plastic pollution, noting that plastic debris including microplastics is a pervasive global threat to marine biodiversity, ecosystem services, and potentially human health. The authors highlight that existing regulatory frameworks are insufficient to manage the transboundary nature of the problem. The study calls for measurable reduction targets and coordinated international action to curb the flow of plastic into the world's oceans.
Advancing the international regulation of plastic pollution beyond the United Nations Environment Assembly resolution on marine litter and microplastics
This legal paper reviews international frameworks relevant to plastic pollution and argues for a binding global agreement specifically targeting plastic pollution, beyond existing resolutions. A comprehensive international treaty is increasingly seen as necessary to meaningfully reduce plastic pollution, including microplastics.
Analysis of Marine Plastic Pollution and Environmental Problems
This review examines the sources, environmental and socioeconomic effects, and policy responses to marine plastic pollution, finding that while scientific knowledge is substantial, policy and regulatory initiatives have so far been inadequate and inconsistent across countries. The paper calls for stronger international coordination and more effective governance tools to meaningfully reduce plastic inputs to the ocean.