Stephen Jamieson A global plastics treaty is essential to address the escalating plastic pollution crisis . Without intervention , the flow of plastic into the environment is set to double by 2040 .

Ambitious global rules have the power to harmonise regulations and foster transparency . A global treaty can drive the systemic change we need by defining polymers , products and chemicals of concern , mandating disclosure and reporting and setting global standards for design and policy tools such as Extended Producer Responsibility .

For businesses in particular , a global plastics treaty offers a unified framework to reduce risks , allocate capital effectively and build sustainable supply chains . Technology and software solutions play a critical role in helping businesses operationalise a treaty .

There is a lot at stake here if we don ’ t get this right . Without a treaty , we can anticipate a significant increase of plastic pollution and associated human health risks .

Haley Lowry Progress is happening , but today less than 10 % of plastic is recycled globally and 32 % of plastic packaging escapes collection systems – suggesting that existing funding and policy frameworks for the waste management ecosystem are insufficient . We need coordinated global action to change that .

Dow fully supports an agreement that will eliminate plastic pollution by creating a socially inclusive , circular economy for plastics that recognises the vital role these materials play in ensuring a low-carbon future .

With demand for plastic on the rise globally and inadequate waste management systems in many countries , driving more sustainable production and addressing the growing problem of plastic waste are clear priorities .

Truly sustainable production includes leveraging alternative and waste plastic feedstocks , creating products for both sustainability and performance , and embracing lower-emissions production .

Anke Boykin The challenges of plastic pollution extend beyond any one nation or industry .

System-wide global change across infrastructure , policy and business is required to enable a more circular economy for plastic packaging and drive more sustainable packaging innovation .

This is why PepsiCo has been supportive of an ambitious and effective global agreement to end plastic pollution – to help level the playing field and drive the systemic change needed to tackle this challenge .

68 January 2025