Global Plastics Treaty – Accountability and Human Rights

The Global Plastics Treaty event is set to take place in Busan, South Korea from November 25 to December 1, 2024. This treaty aims to address the global crisis of plastic pollution. United Nations experts have emphasised the need for accountability from all stakeholders involved in the plastic lifecycle. They assert that plastic producers must contribute to a global fund to support waste management and human rights, especially in developing nations.

About the Need for Accountability

Accountability in the context of plastic pollution involves ensuring that those who produce plastics take responsibility for their impact. This means that plastic producers should contribute financially to a global fund. This fund would support effective waste management strategies. It would also help mitigate the negative effects of plastic pollution on human rights in vulnerable regions.

Polluter-Pays Principle

The polluter-pays principle is central to the treaty. It holds that those who produce pollution should bear the costs of managing it. This principle is crucial for establishing a fair system where the burden of plastic pollution does not fall disproportionately on developing countries. The fund generated would assist in cleaning up existing plastic pollution, including large accumulations in oceans.

Human Rights Considerations

Human rights must be integral to the treaty. The UN experts argue that plastic pollution infringes on fundamental human rights. This includes the right to a healthy environment. The treaty should explicitly reference human rights principles such as transparency, prevention, and accountability. These elements are essential for creating effective solutions to the plastic crisis.

Lifecycle of Plastic

The treaty must address the entire lifecycle of plastic. This includes production, consumption, and disposal. Experts stress that effective management requires a holistic approach. It is vital to phase out non-essential plastic products and promote safe recycling practices. This is particularly relevant for developing countries that face challenges in waste management.

Fair Transition for Affected Communities

A just transition is necessary for communities disproportionately affected by plastic pollution. The treaty should ensure access to remedies for these populations. This means providing support and resources to those who suffer the most from plastic waste. A human rights-based approach is essential for achieving equitable outcomes.

Design Innovations and Economic Considerations

Innovative design of plastic products is crucial. Products should be designed for easy recycling and to reduce reliance on non-essential plastics. Developing countries often lack the infrastructure for effective waste management. Therefore, the treaty must consider economic disparities and provide necessary support.

Global Cooperation and Implementation

Global cooperation is essential for the successful implementation of the treaty. All nations must work together to address plastic pollution. This includes sharing technologies and strategies for effective waste management. The treaty should facilitate collaboration between developed and developing nations.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the implications of the polluter-pays principle in addressing global plastic pollution.
2. Estimate the role of international treaties in promoting human rights and environmental sustainability.
3. What are the key challenges faced by developing countries in managing plastic waste? Provide suitable examples.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the importance of a lifecycle approach in addressing plastic pollution.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the implications of the polluter-pays principle in addressing global plastic pollution.

1. Encourages accountability by making producers financially responsible for pollution.
2. Promotes investment in waste management technologies and infrastructure.
3. Reduces the burden on developing countries by ensuring that polluters contribute to cleanup efforts.
4. Facilitates the implementation of sustainable practices by incentivizing reduced plastic production.
5. Challenges include resistance from industries and the need for robust regulatory frameworks.

2. Estimate the role of international treaties in promoting human rights and environmental sustainability.

1. International treaties create binding commitments for countries to uphold human rights and environmental standards.
2. They facilitate cooperation and resource sharing among nations to tackle global issues.
3. Help establish legal frameworks that protect vulnerable populations from environmental degradation.
4. Promote transparency and accountability in environmental governance.
5. Examples include the Paris Agreement and the Convention on Biological Diversity.

3. What are the key challenges faced by developing countries in managing plastic waste? Provide suitable examples.

1. Lack of infrastructure for waste collection and recycling, leading to increased pollution.
2. Limited financial resources to implement effective waste management systems.
3. High dependency on imported plastics, complicating local waste management efforts.
4. Examples include the Philippines facing severe ocean plastic pollution due to inadequate waste systems.
5. Political instability can hinder the implementation of environmental policies and initiatives.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the importance of a lifecycle approach in addressing plastic pollution.

1. A lifecycle approach considers the environmental impact from production to disposal of plastics.
2. It promotes sustainable design, reducing non-essential plastic production.
3. Examples include the European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan focusing on recycling and waste reduction.
4. Helps identify points in the lifecycle where interventions can reduce pollution.
5. Encourages collaboration among stakeholders across different stages of the plastic lifecycle.