31 May 2023 Editorial Oceans & seas

COBSEA Working Group on Marine Litter Advocates for Cooperative Solutions at INC-2

Paris, France -The COBSEA Working Group on Marine Litter, represented by Malaysia, emphasized the importance of leveraging existing mechanisms to foster cooperation in managing plastic waste disposal, during the second meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-2) for the development of an international legally binding instrument (ILBI) on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.

The COBSEA Working Group on Marine Litter drew attention to the need for a structured and affordable approach to waste management within the ILBI options. Malaysia, speaking on behalf of the group, stressed the significance of adopting a whole lifecycle approach to prevent pollution and promote the reuse of plastics, as well as the exploration of safe and economical alternatives.

Recognizing the pressing need for collective action, the COBSEA Working Group on Marine Litter underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing the plastic pollution crisis. By utilizing existing frameworks and mechanisms, they aim to facilitate effective cooperation among nations in managing plastic waste.

The COBSEA Working Group's contribution to the discussions at INC-2 reflects their commitment to finding practical and sustainable solutions to combat plastic pollution in the marine environment. COBSEA's focus on affordability, waste management structures, and the promotion of alternatives aligns with the broader goal of reducing plastic waste and protecting the health of our oceans.

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