Global Efforts to Curb Plastic Production Intensify at UN Treaty Talks
Negotiators from around 150 countries are gathering in Kenya to hash out the details of a United Nations treaty aimed at cutting plastic pollution globally. However, the oil and gas industry, including major companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron, as well as oil-producing nations such as Saudi Arabia and Russia, are pushing for recycling and waste management solutions instead of substantial cuts in new plastic production. Critics argue that recycling is not effective in curbing plastic waste, and reducing new plastic production is necessary to tackle the problem. The fossil fuel industry's involvement in shaping the treaty raises concerns about its influence and potential impact on future profits. Additionally, a Washington, D.C. nonprofit called Verra, which has ties to the fossil fuel industry, is promoting the concept of plastic credits as a solution to plastic waste, but critics argue that it may be a way to avoid strong regulations and limits on new plastic production.