MPs support a strong global target to cut plastic production

Plastic pollution is overwhelming our planet and all life on earth. Microplastics are contaminating our bodies, the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat. The production process is carbon intensive, contributing more to global warming than the entire aviation industry. Plastic production has already reached unsustainable levels but it is set to nearly triple by 2050 if industry have their way. 

That’s why, in 2022, 175 countries voted to adopt a treaty to address plastic pollution. The UN global plastics treaty has been described by the UN Environment Programme as the most important multilateral treaty since the Paris Agreement in 2015. But after four rounds out of five, negotiations are floundering, with countries still yet to agree the most basic question of all – reducing plastic production. The fossil fuel industry is lobbying hard to make sure the treaty doesn’t damage their profits. 

Fortunately, the public mandate for action is huge. Several polls and petitions in recent years have shown that Britons overwhelmingly think cutting plastic production is a priority issue. This is reflected in public opinion all across the world. Here in the UK, MPs are responding to campaigning from Greenpeace and supporters, and now 71 MPs have pledged their support for a strong global target to cut plastic production. We will present this list of names to the Environment Minister, Steve Reed, before the final round of Treaty negotiations, to make sure he puts the interests of people above plastic polluters. 

Our target is in sight. Last week the UK signed up to the ‘Bridge to Busan’ declaration, a statement signed by 40 countries affirming the need for production cuts to be included in the final treaty. We just need them to go further, and make sure the treaty includes an ambitious, legally binding global target to cut plastic production.

Has your MP signed up? If not, ask them to email rudy.schulkind@greenpeace.org to add their name.