Why the world needs global rules on polymer use

UN nations are currently negotiating terms for a legally binding agreement to address global plastics pollution. Given that existing local regulations are having minimal impact on total plastics usage, a worldwide treaty is badly needed. But what shape should global regulation take to be effective in reducing polymer demand? 

We recently published an in-depth insight from our plastics sustainability team assessing the benefits and limitations of key local regulations and exploring how global UN legislation can be more effective. Fill in the form to download your free copy of the report, and read on for some highlights. 

Current legislative targets will have minimal impact 

Western markets in particular have implemented various pieces of legislation designed to increase recycling and reduce plastics usage. However, we calculate that assumed effective targets and deadlines will only reduce total polymer demand by 4.0 million tonnes, or 2.6%, by 2030. This is mainly because major markets in North America and developing markets lack effective legislation and mandates. 

Growing populations and emerging economies in Asia and Africa will continue to drive demand for single-use plastics throughout the rest of the decade, which will be met by a new wave of production facilities across China. As a result, global plastic usage will trend upwards for the foreseeable future.   

Bans, recycling and taxation are all critical to reducing plastics use 

To be effective, legislation needs to combine three key initiatives: 

Bans: A gradual phasing in of rules outlawing the manufacture, importation, sale and use of specific items, particularly single-use plastics. Improved enforcement will be key, as agencies and infrastructure to control plastics distribution is currently lacking. Scaling up collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure is also essential to make bans viable. 

Recycling targets: Existing packaging legislation focuses on circularity and reuse, but a second wave could specifically target carbon emissions, forcing a drastic change. However, the most recyclable packaging or packaging with the most recycled content may not have the lowest carbon footprint, complicating the issue, and quality control will constantly factor into end-use applications. At the same time, there is currently a lack of domestic sourcing requirements to drive the growth of local circular economies compared to commoditised trade of recycled plastics 

Taxation and penalties: Financially penalising the use of rigid packaging could support virgin resin reduction mandates and catalyse a shift towards flexible alternatives like paper. However, to be effective, penalties must be higher than the premium for recycled material. Technical and cost constraints in uses such as food packaging are also a potential issue. 

The UN global plastics treaty sets the stage for binding resolutions to address the issue 

In March 2022, 175 nations voted to create a legally binding agreement to address global plastics pollution, to be implemented as early as 2025. At the time, the UN estimated plastic production would double from its 2017 total. Since then, the International Negotiating Committee (INC) for the agreement has met four times.  

The treaty aims for a comprehensive approach that minimises plastics pollution by 2040 

The language and core tenets of the treaty remain under discussion, but the current draft focuses on six key aspects: 

Scope: The full lifecycle of plastics is addressed, including in the marine environment. Scope may be adjusted to include all pollution from extraction to production, waste management, product design and recycling systems, as well as measures to address demand and production at a commercial level.  

1. Primary polymers and single-use plastics: Measures will reduce demand and supply of primary polymers and may promote and/or mandate the use of secondary and circular polymers. Language may limit or prohibit the production, sale and distribution of single-use plastic products.  
2. Product design: Standards and guidelines will be set for product design and performance (and potentially labelling requirements). National plans will create recycling, reuse and recycled content targets. Bio-based and biodegradable alternatives and non-plastic substitutes may be promoted. 
3. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Although current language is vague, the aim is for the treaty to help establish national EPR systems to increase recycling rates and enhance producer accountability. Consideration may be applied towards waste pickers and manual collectors.  
4. Financing and resources: Fiscal responsibility may fall to individual nations, but a Multilateral Fund could be created, governed and directed by members to supply resources from developed markets to eligible developing countries. A plastic pollution fee may be implemented as a financial tool. 
5. Governing body: A Conference of Parties (COP) will meet no later than one year after the initial meeting to agree procedures and financial rules. The COP will implement the agreement, while subsidiary bodies may be established for various purposes. 

Don’t forget to fill out the form at the top of the page to access your complimentary copy of the report. This covers existing legislation and the UN treaty in greater depth, as well as providing a detailed case study of legislative efforts in India, and information about the Polymers/Films/Fibres products and services in our Chemicals Product Suite.