Filipino Advocates Push for Bold Global Plastics Treaty at INC-5

Climate Change

Green groups demand action as nations gather in Busan, South Korea, for the critical INC-5 negotiations.

Greenpeace Philippines, with local organizations, staged a protest in La Union, urging governments to end plastic pollution globally.

Marian Ledesma, Greenpeace’s Zero Waste Campaigner, stressed the importance of INC-5 in addressing plastic pollution worldwide.

“Governments must adopt an ambitious Plastics Treaty to reduce production, promote reuse, and protect health and the environment,” Ledesma said.

Community members and businesses echoed the call, advocating for a circular economy and significant cuts in plastic production.

The plastic crisis ties to fossil fuels, with 99% of plastics derived from fossil-based chemicals, worsening climate change.

The Philippines ranks among top ocean plastic polluters, making INC-5 an opportunity to lead in combating plastic waste.

Koalisyon Isalbar ti Pintas ti La Union President Cris Palabay said the treaty could stop single-use plastic production globally.

“This treaty lets our voices be heard worldwide and helps curb single-use plastic production,” Palabay said.

Tina Antonio-Schmitz emphasized that the treaty should hold corporations accountable instead of burdening small communities and businesses.

“The treaty can guide governments and even lead to litigation against major producers,” Antonio-Schmitz explained.

Oil-producing nations and lobbyists pressure for a watered-down treaty, threatening progress against the worsening plastic crisis.

Advocates demand a 75% reduction in plastic production by 2040 to protect the planet and its ecosystems.

A survey showed 94% of Filipinos favor limiting plastic production to address pollution and climate change impacts.

Greenpeace urges the Philippine delegation to champion people-centered solutions for a strong and impactful Plastics Treaty.

“INC-5 will be remembered for choices made today. This is a chance for a healthier, plastic-free future,” Ledesma said.

Governments must act decisively to stop plastic pollution, as the world watches these critical negotiations.