Why a Global Plastic Treaty is Important
Plastic pollution has become one of the big environmental - and social justice - crises of our lifetime. From the deepest point in our oceans to the streets of our cities, plastic waste is everywhere. It’s harming our environment, wildlife, and even our health.
In response to this global problem, the international community has come together to negotiate a historic Global Plastic Treaty. If it upholds the ambition, this treaty could effectively reduce plastic production and outline a legally binding agreement on how to collectively address the plastic crisis.
One of the key strategies discussed is the implementation of reuse systems. In this article, we will explore why reuse is so crucial and how it can make a difference on a global scale.
Objectives and Scope
As the negotiation for the terms of the Global Plastic Treaty is ongoing, civil society groups are asking countries to remain steadfast in passing a strong and ambitious treaty, one that will effectively reduce plastic production substantially.
A central part of achieving this is the promotion of reuse systems. Reuse involves using products multiple times instead of discarding them after a single use. This approach is not just a minor tweak but a fundamental shift in how we design, produce, and consume products.
During the treaty negotiations, reuse systems solutions have been increasingly popular.
Why Reuse is Instrumental in Reducing Plastic Pollution
Reuse is more than just a good idea. It is a fundamental shift towards a non-toxic economy and a powerful tool in the fight against plastic pollution. Here are a few reasons why:
- Reducing Material Use: The world is on track to produce around 450 million tons of new plastic in 2025. Studies show that this increase in plastic production is directly linked to plastic pollution. Hence, reducing plastic production is one of the most effective ways to fight pollution. It impacts all other measures throughout the lifecycle of plastics (e.g. Recycling). When we use products multiple times, we need fewer new items. This reduces the amount of plastic produced and, consequently, the amount of waste generated.
- Minimizing Environmental Leakage: Reuse systems require a well thought-through infrastructure for reverse logistics and redistribution of reusable items. Once this infrastructure is set up, it encourages the responsible return of items, reducing the likelihood of plastic ending up in the environment. This is particularly important for marine ecosystems, where plastic pollution is especially devastating.
- Emissions Savings: The plastic industry is already responsible for 12% of global oil demand and it is the number one driver behind increasing demand. Reuse can significantly cut down on carbon emissions. For example, reusable packaging can lead to a 90% reduction in packaging production and an 80% reduction in climate emissions compared to single-use alternatives.
In comparison to other measures like recycling or bio-based materials, reuse stands out. While these alternatives have their benefits, they do not address the root issue of over-production and consumption as effectively as reuse does. Reuse prioritizes reduction and minimizes the risk of transferring the pollution problem to other materials.
How to Implement Reuse Systems on a Global Scale
Implementing reuse systems globally requires a structured approach:
- Technical Measures and Performance Criteria: The governing body of the treaty needs to set technical measures and minimum performance criteria for reusable packaging systems. True to the motto, “You can only improve what you can measure”, these criteria should include requirements such as a minimum number of rotations (e.g., at least 20 rotations on average), packaging return rates, and standards for interoperability, washing, and handling.
- Implementation and Phase-In Targets: After all, it is up to national regulators to implement measures that are agreed upon in the treaty. Countries will need to adopt national and international standards for reusable packaging systems. Phase-in targets need to be established for various sectors, such as packaging, food & beverages, agriculture, healthcare, and textiles. These targets will likely be tailored to each country's priorities and capacities.
- Regulatory Framework: A robust and harmonized regulatory framework is essential. This includes developing clear definitions and standards, ensuring that reuse systems meet minimum environmental and social performance criteria. The framework must also facilitate fair participation from impacted communities and sectors as well as financial mechanisms for redistribution.
Benefits of Reuse Systems
If the Global Plastic Treaty successfully manages to define effective criteria for reuse systems, there is reason to hope for an easing plastic pollution crisis. Reuse systems have many benefits and there are already many successful examples globally.
- Economic Benefits: Reuse can transform supply chains and operations, leading to significant system benefits for both consumers and industry. From a business perspective, a major advantage of reuse systems is that they create additional customer touchpoints. Whenever a customer returns or refills a reusable item, it provides an opportunity for additional revenue. Likewise, well-designed reuse systems can reduce costs and create new market opportunities and jobs, particularly in local communities.
- Environmental Benefits: By reducing the need for new plastic production, reuse systems can cut down on waste and emissions. For example, Algramo, a Chile-based company, has seen 90% of consumers return packaging for over 10 years, demonstrating the potential for long-term reduction in environmental pollution.
- Social Benefits: Reuse systems often involve local communities and can provide economic development opportunities. They also prioritize funding for small and medium-sized businesses, especially in economic development zones.
- Health Benefits: By reducing plastic pollution, reuse systems help mitigate health concerns related to toxic chemical exposure, microplastics in food and water, and air pollution from incineration.
Outlook
As we move closer to finalizing the Global Plastic Treaty, the role of reuse systems is becoming increasingly clear. These systems are not just a part of the solution but a cornerstone in global efforts to reduce plastic pollution. With the right technical measures, performance criteria, and regulatory framework in place, we can transition to reuse systems on a global scale.
The upcoming negotiations in Busan, South Korea, will be instrumental in setting the stage for a future where reuse is the norm. As we look ahead, the success of the treaty will depend on governments, businesses, and civil society working together to ensure that the treaty includes strong provisions for reuse. By doing so, we can create a more sustainable, equitable, and healthier world for all.
UPDATE: Unfortunately, the negotiations in Busan did not lead to an agreement. Opposition from oil producing countries like Saudi Arabia was too strong. We will have to wait for next year's negotiations (location TBC.) to hope for results.
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