It is a timely and critical signal, ahead of the resumed negotiations (INC 5.2) in Geneva in August, showing that UN member states are increasingly aligned on how the treaty can meaningfully address the plastic pollution crisis.

As the Global Plastic Treaty negotiations enter a critical phase at the next Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee meeting (INC 5.2) this August, the role of harmonised global regulations versus voluntary national approaches is at the core of the debate on this agreement.

While INC-5.1 in Busan, Republic of Korea, did not lead to the adoption of a final treaty text, there were strong signs of progress. Governments showed increasing alignment and agreed to maintain momentum by resuming negotiations at INC-5.2, which will take place in Geneva from 5 to 14 August 2025.

Despite tireless efforts by the INC Chair and government negotiators to finalise a global plastics treaty, it will not be agreed in Busan, as planned. We are encouraged by the increased alignment amongst over 100 countries on critical elements.

With only hours left for negotiations, governments must make a choice.