The 5th session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to Develop an International Legally Binding Instrument on Plastic Pollution, Including in the Marine Environment (INC-5) is taking place in in Busan, Republic of Korea on 25 November – 1 December 2024. An IPCP Member is attending and providing daily summaries.
Today began with the rhythmic sound of rain against the window. Stepping outside, the grey skies and heavy downpour were no match for the determined strides of many delegates and observers making their way to the convention center. Their expressions revealed a mix of resolve and anticipation. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere is charged. With political uncertainties looming—fueled by shifting dynamics in elections across the globe—the INC-5 feels like a “make or break” moment.
Morning Reflections: Plastic Packaging and Its Paradoxes
In an effort to reduce my plastic consumption, I ventured to a different café for breakfast. My choice? A beautifully wrapped sandwich. The illusion shattered the moment I touched it: the wrapping was plastic masquerading as paper.
This seemingly trivial experience lingered in my thoughts throughout the day. Why do we create plastic packaging that mimics paper when actual paper could suffice? It also highlighted a deeper question—do we truly need plastic in every application? If not, how can we, as consumers, signal our desire for change to manufacturers and retailers? These questions are critical as we rethink our relationship with this ubiquitous material.
Frustrations on the Sidelines: Observers’ Access and Limited Engagement
The day’s negotiations brought fresh challenges, particularly for observers like myself. Outside the Contact Group room, a long queue formed. These informal sessions, crucial for drafting treaty language, operate under Chatham House rules to foster open dialogue. Unfortunately, for observers like me, small rooms with limited seating meant that only early arrivals could participate.
Adding to the frustration, informal consultations on chemicals of concern—a cornerstone issue of the treaty—were also closed to observers. This exclusion left me relegated to a quiet corner, relying on passing conversations with colleagues and acquaintances to piece together updates. Yet, despite my efforts, the morning felt fragmented, leaving me struggling to form a coherent picture of the negotiations.
Progress Amid Being Slow: A Glimmer of Hope
Post-lunch, a small breakthrough emerged: the organizers addressed the space constraints by moving one of the Contact Groups to a larger room, enabling broader participation. Evening sessions followed suit, providing a more inclusive environment.
The Contact Group on chemicals of concern, problematic plastics, and product design finally convened in the evening. However, much like the plenary session on the day before, the discussions were characterized by divergent views rather than convergence. Adding to the complexity, various countries submitted their proposals on how to address chemicals of concern, each reflecting vastly different levels of ambition. The path to convergence remains unclear, with much work left to synthesize these proposals into actionable treaty provisions.
Closing Thoughts: Day 2 and Beyond
As the second day drew to a close—earlier than expected, at 10:30 PM—I found myself reflecting on the delicate interplay of ambition, negotiation, and inclusivity. This journey toward solving the global plastic pollution is a marathon, not a sprint. The complexities of modern life, our reliance on plastics, and the pressing need for systemic change demand patience, creativity, and cooperation. With a blend of optimism and caution, I look to the days ahead, hoping for clearer skies—both literally and figuratively—as the world works toward a treaty that can truly make a difference.
IISD coverage:
https://enb.iisd.org/plastic-pollution-marine-environment-negotiating-committee-inc5