Moldova joined 178 other countries in the fifth round of negotiations to create a global treaty on plastic pollution. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) organized the event in Busan, South Korea, as part of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution. Grigore Stratulat, State Secretary at the Environment Ministry, represented Moldova.
The treaty requires countries to reduce plastic use, adopt less harmful materials, and promote recycling. Participants also discussed replacing plastic products with sustainable alternatives.
Delegates emphasized the need to create a financial mechanism to provide resources for implementing these measures. Stratulat stated, “Moldova is committed to implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mechanisms. However, we need additional support to develop an efficient plastic recycling infrastructure.”
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The treaty seeks to significantly cut plastic pollution by 2040, focusing on marine environments. Studies reveal that over 90% of global plastic production is not recycled, and 20 million tons of plastic enter nature every year, often just minutes after use. In 2019, humanity generated about 460 million tons of plastic—double the amount produced in 2000. If current trends continue, this figure could double again by 2040.
The treaty will regulate plastic production and use, promote sustainable alternatives, improve recycling strategies, and educate the public on the environmental impact of plastic to raise awareness.