Global Plastic Treaty Stalls Amid Oil State Opposition

Negotiations for a global treaty to tackle plastic pollution have collapsed after two years, as oil-producing nations opposed measures to reduce plastic production, citing economic concerns. The talks in South Korea ended without agreement, with a key division over whether to legally bind countries to cut plastic production or focus on recycling. Environmental groups and some nations expressed disappointment, highlighting the influence of the fossil fuel industry. The failure to reach consensus delays critical action against plastic pollution, though a group of 95 countries may pursue their own treaty.