A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution's development of an international binding agreement, which is expected to be completed at its Fifth Session in Busan, Republic of Korea in December 2024.
The bill highlights significant public health and environmental concerns associated with plastic pollution, noting that the production and disposal of plastics contribute notably to air, soil, and water contamination, adversely affecting biodiversity and human health. A staggering amount of plastic waste—approximately 1 million to 2 million metric tons—flows into U.S. environments each year, resulting in detrimental effects on marine life and communities dependent on healthy environmental conditions. The resolution asserts the necessity for an international leadership role to craft a consensus-based approach among nations tackling this formidable issue.
SR893 is a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding the ongoing efforts of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution. This committee is tasked with developing a legally binding international agreement to tackle plastic pollution globally, which is anticipated to be finalized at its Fifth Session in Busan, Republic of Korea, in December 2024. The resolution emphasizes the United States' commitment to spearheading negotiations that aim to mitigate the health and environmental impacts of plastic waste, with a focus on comprehensive strategies that will effectively manage and reduce plastic consumption and pollution.
Notable points of contention in discussions surrounding SR893 include the varying degrees of commitment different nations show towards addressing the plastic pollution crisis. While some countries advocate for ambitious measures and a binding agreement, others prioritize national sovereignty in determining their own pollution reduction strategies. The resolution also mentions previous national legislation efforts within the U.S. that banned or taxed certain plastic products, underscoring ongoing domestic conflicts over plastic regulation. Furthermore, while progress is crucial against the backdrop of an emerging global consensus, some groups may view international agreements as a mechanism for delaying significant efforts on regional and local levels.
The resolution underscores the importance of achieving circularity in plastic lifecycle management—spanning production, usage, recycling, and disposal—to reduce the overall environmental impact. It advocates for a thorough framework that ensures transparency and accountability among participating nations, promoting the responsible crafting and implementation of local regulations. Essential to building this consensus is the involvement of various stakeholders, including industry representatives, civil society, and scientific experts, to ensure comprehensive and sustainable strategies are pursued.