The final round of global negotiations for a plastics treaty failed to reach an agreement following discussions in Geneva last week. Australia played a strong role in the negotiations as a member of the High Ambition Coalition, consisting of more than 100 countries.
Australia wants to see a coordinated global phase-out of problematic plastic products and harmful chemicals used in plastics, as well as better design of plastics to reduce waste and increase circularity.
Watt said Australia was never going to accept a bad deal for the environment.
“While this is a disappointing outcome, our goals haven’t changed. As a member of the High Ambition Coalition to end plastic pollution, the Albanese Government is committed to continuing to work with other nations that want to see a world free of plastic pollution,” he said.
“We know that plastic pollution affects the small islands in the Pacific significantly, and we’ll keep standing up for a meaningful and effective approach that will meet Australia’s expectations and deliver for the Pacific.”
He said the government is partnering with states and territories to meet Australia’s commitment to doubling circularity by 2035.
“By boosting recycling capability with our state and territory partners through investments in new recycling infrastructure, we’re making real progress in recovering materials that would otherwise go to landfill.
“Through our Recycling Modernisation Fund, Australia’s recycling capacity is increasing by more than 1.3 million tonnes per year. Over 50 new and upgraded recycling infrastructure projects have now been completed, with over 80 projects in the pipeline.
“On top of this, we’re continuing to work with states and territories to phase out problematic single-use plastics and transform Australia’s packaging regulations.”
For more information, visit: www.minister.dcceew.gov.au
Related stories:
UN fails to reach agreement on global plastics treaty
Health experts make recommendations for the upcoming UN Plastics Treaty
.png){kind=small}
