Global negotiators reconvene in Geneva to finalise legally binding agreement to end plastic pollution

The resumed fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) for a global plastics treaty kicked off in Geneva on Tuesday, drawing delegates from 184 countries and over 600 observer groups.

This critical round of negotiations, held from August 5 to 14 at the historic Palais des Nations, aims to finalise a legally binding international agreement to tackle plastic pollution worldwide, says a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) press release.

The committee, formed under the mandate of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), is tasked with crafting a comprehensive treaty that addresses plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle—including production, consumption, and waste management.

This session follows INC-5, held in late 2024 in Busan, South Korea, and builds on earlier rounds in Uruguay, France, Kenya, and Canada.

“Plastic pollution is already in nature, in our oceans, and even in our bodies,” warned Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, at the opening session.

“If we continue on this trajectory, the whole world will be drowning in plastic. But agreeing on a treaty is the first step to beating plastic pollution for everyone, everywhere.”

In the lead-up to INC-5.2, informal ministerial consultations and stakeholder meetings were held to narrow down differences and streamline the treaty text. The Swiss government also hosted a multi-stakeholder forum a day ahead of the talks, reaffirming Switzerland's commitment to a global solution.

“This is a unique and historic opportunity for the international community,” said INC Chair Luis Vayas Valdivieso. “It is not just a test of our diplomacy—it is a test of our collective responsibility to protect the environment and those most affected by the plastic crisis.”

Katrin Schneeberger, Director of the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment, underscored the urgency of the moment. “Plastic waste is choking our lakes, harming wildlife, and threatening human health. This is more than an environmental issue—it is a global challenge that demands immediate and collective action.”

Over 3,700 participants, including government officials, scientists, civil society members, and industry representatives, are attending the session. Executive Secretary of the INC, Jyoti Mathur-Filipp, called on negotiators to ensure the session becomes part of Geneva’s long legacy of international agreements.

The outcomes of INC-5.2 are expected to be forwarded to a future Diplomatic Conference for formal adoption, potentially marking a watershed moment in global environmental governance.