Speech prepared for delivery at the launch event for the Nairobi Group of Friends on marine litter and plastic pollution.
I extend my thanks to Ambassador Guerra of Chile and Ambassador Fragoso of Portugal and thank you very much for the initiative to establish a ‘Group of Friends’ to combat marine litter and plastic pollution.
Distinguished ambassadors,
You are here because the science is clear on the dangers of marine litter and plastic pollution. Through UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) resolutions and the ad hoc open-ended expert group (AHEG) on marine litter and microplastics, you have recognized the urgency of the matter. You have recognized that we need to act across the plastics lifecycle, including through circular approaches. You have recognized that we must protect the environment and human health.
Momentum is building for global action to address the issue of marine litter and plastic pollution. Here in Kenya, we are witness to just how well the ban on single-use plastic bags has worked. We are seeing government guardrails slowly being put in place in some countries to promote sustainable consumption and production and circularity. The science is clear. The data is here. The solutions are known. What we need is government action, consumer awareness, and industry commitment.
The Nairobi Group of Friends provides a way to advance the conversation, with a view to considering elements of a resolution at UNEA 5.2 on marine litter and plastic pollution. This Group will be critical in facilitating discussions of an effective approach to combat marine litter and plastic pollution and spurring coordinated solutions.
We need to ensure strong, coordinated, and ambitious action now, using science as the basis. Connecting action across regions and cities. Building on existing multilateral agreements. UNEP is here to support Member States as they review options and opportunities to address this problem. Our support includes promoting evidence-based approaches, promoting sustainable consumption and production, promoting circularity, and working to improve products and standards, so that we may increase business and consumer awareness and strengthen the science-policy interface.
With the solutions at our fingertips and with accelerating political will, now is the time to turn the tide on marine litter and plastic pollution.
Thank you.
Executive Director
