Global negotiations to agree a treaty aimed at ending plastic pollution have collapsed, with no deal reached and no clear path forward. The talks, which extended beyond Thursday's deadline into Friday morning, remained deadlocked on the central issue of whether to curb plastic production and impose legally binding controls on toxic chemicals.
Several countries expressed disappointment and anger at the failure of the sixth and final round of talks in Geneva. Despite the deadlock, they indicated willingness to continue discussions in a resumed session. Non-governmental organisations described the outcome as a 'blow to multilateralism', with some delegates reflecting on whether to proceed without obstructionist petrostates.
France's minister for ecological transition, Agnès Pannier-Runacher, said she was 'disappointed' and 'angry' that a handful of countries guided by 'short-term financial interests' blocked an ambitious treaty. The UK's marine minister Emma Hardy said she was 'hugely disappointed' but proud of the UK's efforts. Colombia's delegate Sebastián Rodríguez accused a small number of states of consistently blocking agreement.
Tuvalu, speaking for 14 Pacific island states, said the failure means millions of tonnes of plastic waste will continue to be dumped in oceans, affecting ecosystems and livelihoods. China's delegation described the fight as a 'long marathon' and urged countries to work together.
Luis Vayas Valdivieso, chair of the negotiating committee, presented two draft texts, both rejected by 184 countries. Saudi Arabia said the drafts lacked balance, while Saudi and Kuwaiti negotiators preferred a later proposal that did not limit production but acknowledged 'unsustainable' levels.
Delegates left with little clarity on next steps, but acknowledged lessons must be learned. Jessika Roswall, EU environment commissioner, said the outcome could serve as a basis for a resumed session if they learn from the process. Dennis Clare of Micronesia suggested considering whether to continue without dedicated obstructionists.
