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Global Plastics Treaty

All articles tagged with #global plastics treaty

environment1 year ago

"Global Study Reveals Alarming Levels of Ocean Plastic Pollution and Hotspots of Marine Life Risk"

A recent study by researchers from the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research and the Alfred Wegener Institute has found large quantities of plastic waste and microplastics in a remote marine protected area in the Pacific Ocean, similar to those found in one of the world's largest known garbage patches. The study highlights that plastics are distributed much more widely than expected, posing a threat to the entire ocean ecosystem. The researchers call for global emissions of plastics into the ocean to be stopped as quickly as possible and advocate for the adoption of a legally binding global Plastics Treaty to address plastic pollution.

health-environment2 years ago

"Unveiling the Cost of Plastic Chemicals on America's Health: A $250 Billion Burden"

A study by New York University researchers estimates that exposure to microplastics, including 'forever chemicals,' costs the US healthcare system $289 billion annually, surpassing the healthcare costs of the entire Covid pandemic. These tiny plastics, found in bottled water and most food, have been linked to chronic health conditions such as cancers, hormone imbalances, fertility problems, and heart disease. The study calls for a Global Plastics Treaty to address the pervasive issue of microplastics and promote the use of sustainable alternatives to reduce the incidence of diseases and healthcare costs associated with plastic pollution.

environment2 years ago

"UN treaty talks aim to reduce global plastic pollution by 80%"

As talks begin on a global plastics treaty, countries are debating whether to limit plastic production or focus on recycling. A 55-nation coalition is calling for a strong treaty including restrictions on hazardous chemicals and bans on problematic plastics products. The U.N. Environment Programme has released a blueprint for reducing plastic waste by 80% by 2040, focusing on reuse, recycling, and reorientation of plastic packaging to alternative materials. Environmental groups criticize the report for focusing on waste management, which they see as a concession to the global plastics and petrochemicals industry. The industry has put mechanical and chemical recycling at the center of its position.