A global treaty aiming to reduce plastic waste could be agreed upon in December, marking a landmark effort to tackle escalating plastic pollution. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) warns that if unchecked, global plastic production could soar to 1.2 billion tons by 2060. Currently, synthetic polymer production is driven by major global players, including the United States, the Middle East, and China.

Plastic waste has surged globally, doubling in just two decades. In 2019, 353 million tons of plastic trash were generated, of which two-thirds comprised short-lived items like packaging. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), these plastics account for about 85 percent of marine litter, with waste mismanagement causing significant environmental harm. The OECD estimates that by 2060, environmental plastic waste will double, threatening ecosystems and human health.

The environmental and health impacts of plastics are widespread. Tiny particles from non-biodegradable plastics infiltrate soil, water, and food chains, while plastic processing contributes to climate change. In 2019 alone, plastic production released 1.8 billion tons of greenhouse gases, primarily due to petroleum-based manufacturing processes. With the treaty on the horizon, global efforts are now focused on combating the plastic crisis through reduced production and improved waste management.