The fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) on plastic pollution wrapped up in Busan, South Korea, with over 3,300 delegates from 170 nations agreeing on a “Chair’s Text” as the foundation for further treaty negotiations. A follow-up session is planned for 2025.
The Chair’s Text, developed by Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso, aims to advance efforts toward a legally binding global treaty addressing plastic pollution across its life cycle. While progress was made on treaty structure and shared challenges, key areas of divergence remain, requiring additional negotiation.
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), highlighted the urgency of the treaty: “The world’s commitment to ending plastic pollution is clear. The Busan talks have moved us closer to protecting our health, environment, and future from plastic pollution.”
Negotiators emphasized the need for ambition and collaboration to tackle the severe impacts of pollution on ecosystems and human health.
The INC process began with a historic 2022 resolution at the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2) to develop a comprehensive treaty on pollution. Previous negotiation rounds were held in Punta del Este, Paris, Nairobi, and Ottawa. The INC Secretariat is expected to announce the venue for the 2025 resumed session soon.
