INC5.2: Where do we go from here?

The latest round of negotiations for a Global Plastics Treaty did not deliver the ambitious framework for action that many businesses, governments and civil society have been advocating for. Now is the time to assess: what's the economic case for global regulations, what progress has been made, and what are the next steps for tackling plastic pollution?

The Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty commissioned modelling showing that a global treaty with harmonised, binding rules on design, EPR, and phase-outs could cut mismanaged waste by 23%, increase global recycled content availability by about 77% by 2040, and generate around US $576 billion in global EPR revenue. Clear global obligations would reduce business risk in transitioning away from business as usual, and save governments up to US $220 billion in waste management spending. Despite this economic rationale and strong backing from the Coalition’s 300+ member organisations, the last round of negotiations for a Global Plastics Treaty ended without agreement on the path forward.

The webinar discussion INC5.2: Where do we go from here? with PepsiCo, Tomra, the Global Plastic Action Partnership at the World Economic Forum and the International Alliance of Waste Pickers served as a pragmatic checkpoint. We discussed what an inconclusive outcome means for business strategy, and what enabling conditions are needed to effectively address plastic waste pollution—within and beyond a global treaty.

You can access the full video recording, to revisit key insights. The audience actively contributed to shaping the discussion with their questions: we've compiled them in this Q&A report for view.

Our expert panel reflected on the Treaty negotiations so far, sharing insights on the process, progress and priorities for business and key stakeholders. The focus was on solutions, touching upon shortcomings and opportunities in recycling, the role of EPR schemes and how to effectively integrate waste pickers and circular solutions as part of a just transitions for the industry.

We'll be continuing the conversation on packaging and plastics regulations at the Sustainable Packaging Innovation Forum in Chicago (October 28-29). You can view the agenda here, featuring speakers from the likes of Mondelēz International, Amcor, Kraft Heinz, TerraCycle, Keurig Dr Pepper, Circular Action Alliance, McDonald's, Kenvue, Global Plastic Action Partnership, SC Johnson. For more information on how to register, click here or contact [email protected].