Page 25 - Plastics News Issue December 2024
P. 25
REPORT
This text contains some positive elements, in- Furthermore, the document prohibits open
cluding a strengthened focus on human health dumping and burning of plastic waste—practic-
and the lifecycle of plastics. It provides clear def- es that contribute significantly to environmental
initions for key terms such as plastic, plastic pol- degradation and public health hazards.
lution, and plastic waste, offering a foundation
for consistent interpretation and implementa- From India all the MEA, MOEFCC and DCPC team
tion. Additionally, the inclusion of annexes listing were very receptive and heard us excellently.
banned products and chemicals is a significant Also, their untiring discussion with like-minded
step toward coordinated global action. country teams helped gain support in the INC-5.
Provisions addressing single-use and short-lived Sectoral focus is another strength of the text.
plastics, with prescribed phase-out timelines, It addresses emissions from fishing gear, plastic
demonstrate a commitment to reducing the pellets, and microplastics from all sources, rec-
most harmful types of plastic pollution. The text ognising their role as major contributors to ma-
also emphasises transparency, mandating the rine pollution.
reporting of statistical data and making publicly
available a list of exemptions granted to Parties India Government Representatives did good
and Regional Economic work and that was echoed by the support re-
ceived from many countries. India has shown
their strength and like-minded country support.
At INC 5.2 there is hope that all the countries
can work out solutions to plastic pollution for a
better planet.
December 2024 PLASTICS NEWS 25
