Views: 4 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2024-11-29 Origin: Site
If all goes as planned, the European Commission is currently participating in the final negotiations of the Global Plastic Treaty (INC-5) in Busan, South Korea. The ultimate goal of this negotiation is to reach an agreement on a global framework to address plastic pollution.
Regarding plastics, the Executive Vice President of the European Green Deal said:
"Plastics are choking our oceans, polluting the environment, and harming people’s health and livelihoods. If business as usual continues, plastic production will triple by 2060. We need coordinated global policies to change plastic production and consumption patterns in a way that delivers for people and the planet. We now have a chance to demonstrate how we can take action jointly to promote a more circular and sustainable economy for plastics. The EU is ready to engage with other parties and build bridges for agreeing on a global treaty by the end of the year."
Regardless of the final agreement reached by the EU in Busan, it is predictable that all plastic manufacturers will need to make corresponding adjustments regarding the recyclability of plastics. The usage of plastics will undoubtedly continue to rise because plastics have become an integral part of many aspects of our daily lives. With their convenience and malleability, plastics play an irreplaceable role.
In the end, the most likely scenario is that non-recyclable plastic materials, such as composite materials, multi-layer plastics, PVC, PS, mixed plastics, and glossy or coated materials, will gradually see reduced usage. On the other hand, recyclable materials, such as PET, PETE, HDPE, LDPE, and PP, will be favored more. By repeatedly reusing recyclable materials, the overall plastic production can be reduced. Of course, this is not good news for plastic manufacturers.
According to the records from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), we know that before the negotiations began, more than 127 countries had already introduced principles regarding single-use plastics. By setting standards and rules, these countries aim to realize the concept of recyclable and sustainable plastic production. Although every country in the world needs strong laws to enforce these principles, even after this agreement is reached, it is important to consider each country's current situation. Each country will need different levels of effort to ensure the fairness of the transition.
In future production, One Plastic will also place more emphasis on the recyclability of plastic products. We will focus more on choosing materials like PET, PETE, and others that cause less environmental pollution and generate lower carbon footprints during the production process.