Contentious negotiations and mixed outcomes define latest round of plastics treaty talks

The third round of negotiations for a global plastics treaty ended with frustration as countries struggled to agree on basic terms and definitions. While there were some signs of progress, such as growing support for addressing harmful chemicals in plastics, negotiators are significantly behind schedule and lack a formal work plan for the next five months. Advocacy groups expressed disappointment, warning that without a course correction, the treaty could fail to deliver on its promise. The discussions were dominated by procedural conversations and stalling from oil-producing countries. The disagreement over the scope of the agreement, whether it should limit plastic production or focus on cleaning up the oceans, remains a major sticking point. With only two meetings left before the final draft is due, the future progress of the treaty is uncertain.