MINAGRIS partner, Amila Abeynaka, is a co-author on a recent study published in the Science of The Total Environment, which highlights the critical components necessary for a global approach to reducing plastic pollution, a pressing environmental challenge.
The study emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive strategy that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastics, from production to disposal. This approach is deemed essential for mitigating the extensive ecological and health impacts of plastic pollution, which is exacerbated by the presence of over 16,000 chemicals in plastics, many of which are toxic.
The paper, authored by experts from the Scientists' Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty, outlines six essential pillars for a successful global plastics treaty:
1. Plastic Chemical Reduction and Simplification: Decreasing the number and complexity of chemicals used in plastics.
2. Safe and Sustainable Design: Ensuring plastic chemicals are designed with safety and sustainability in mind.
3. Incentives for Change: Creating economic and regulatory incentives to encourage reduction and safe design.
4. Holistic Approaches for Alternatives: Developing and promoting comprehensive alternatives to conventional plastics.
5. Just and Equitable Interventions: Implementing fair and inclusive measures that consider the needs and rights of all communities.
6. Centering Human Rights: Upholding the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment for all.
The study also highlights the necessity for transparency and traceability in plastic production and disposal processes to effectively manage this global issue. It calls for scientifically informed and globally harmonized criteria to protect both the environment and public health.
As the United Nations moves towards establishing an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, the insights from this study could play a crucial role in shaping effective and equitable policies to combat plastic pollution globally.
Read the full paper by clicking here.
