Greenpeace urges PH to back ambitious Global Plastics Treaty in Geneva talks

Greenpeace Philippines has joined global civil society groups in sounding the alarm over increasing efforts by oil-producing countries and industry lobbyists to weaken the scope of the Global Plastics Treaty, currently under negotiation in Geneva.

During the final round of talks for what environmentalists call the most significant global environmental agreement since the Paris Accord, delegates from around the world are under pressure to finalize a legally binding treaty to combat plastic pollution. However, environmental advocates warn that fossil fuel and petrochemical interests are working behind the scenes to shift the focus of the treaty away from reducing plastic production and toward downstream solutions like waste management.

Plastic waste remains a global issue despite years of recycling efforts [photo credit: Noel Celis | Greenpeace ]

“The Plastics Treaty is under threat,” said Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner at Greenpeace Philippines, who is attending the talks. “If governments do not ensure that measures for production reduction, phaseout of problematic single-use plastics, and hazardous chemical elimination are in the treaty, we will end up with a weak agreement that protects corporate profits over people’s health and the environment.”

Call for upstream solutions and production cuts

Greenpeace and allied scientists, advocates, and frontline communities argue that plastic pollution must be addressed at its source. They warn that without binding targets to curb plastic production and phase out toxic materials, the treaty risks being ineffective.

Over 200 industry-linked observers have participated in previous negotiations, raising concerns over the influence of petrochemical lobbyists. Despite this, advocates are calling on nations—including the Philippines—to stand firm.

“The Philippines must take a bold stand in these talks,” said Ledesma. “We need countries to establish real solutions supported by just financial mechanisms.”

A recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice reinforced the obligation of states to uphold the right to a safe, healthy, and sustainable environment—something that campaigners say is incompatible with the continued growth of plastic production.

More than 80 organizations in the Philippines, including academic institutions and local businesses, have signed a letter to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), urging the delegation to push for upstream measures such as production cuts and reuse systems, instead of focusing solely on waste and recycling.

“Plastic pollution doesn’t start in our homes. It starts in boardrooms and factories,” added Ledesma. “No amount of recycling or cleanup can undo the damage caused by relentless plastic production. Our world leaders must have the courage to stop plastic at the source.”

Greenpeace Philippines’ key demands for the treaty:

Set global targets to cut primary plastic production
Phase out single-use plastics and toxic chemicals
Establish zero-waste systems, including reuse and refill models
Protect public health and environmental rights
Ensure inclusive participation, including youth and vulnerable workers
Push for fair financing and trade rules
Anchor the treaty in human rights and a just transition

As negotiations continue, Greenpeace is calling on the Philippine government to align with countries pushing for an ambitious, legally binding treaty that tackles plastic pollution at its root.