UNEP IN 2022

At UNEA 5.2 in February, nations delivered a big win for people and planet by agreeing to negotiate a global deal to end plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.

The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop a legally binding instrument on plastic pollution held its first meeting in late November in Punta del Este, Uruguay. Many governments confirmed their commitment to developing an instrument that addresses the full life cycle of plastics, protects human health and the environment, and pays special attention to the circumstances of countries most in need. Participants at the meeting agreed on two work streams: one to set objectives, core obligations and control measures; the other on means of implementation and financing, institutional arrangements, assessment of progress and stakeholder engagement.

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A woman sorts plastic bottles in Watamu, Kenya. Plastic pollution remains a huge threat to ecosystems around the world. Photo: UNEP
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