I congratulate the United Nations Environment Assembly for adopting a landmark Resolution to end plastic pollution through an international legally binding instrument.
While plastic has afforded us many conveniences and technological advances, found everywhere from the International Space Station to surgical rooms, it is clear that its convenience has been abused. The nearly ubiquitous use of plastic and the resultant plastic pollution now constitutes a serious environmental and health concern. Indeed, microplastics can be found everywhere from drinking water to glaciers to mountaintops.
The dramatic levels of plastic pollution affect sustainable development, and undermine our efforts to achieve the SDGs, as well as undertake global climate action.
The UNEA resolution has rightly identified the transboundary nature of plastic pollution and recommended concerted actions at the local, regional and global levels. It recognizes the need for enhanced international collaboration on green technology, capacity building, and scientific and technical cooperation to ensure the sustainable design and use of plastic products.
I am pleased to note that this resolution marks the beginning of, and paves the way for, an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, which could include both binding and voluntary approaches, based on a comprehensive approach that addresses the full lifecycle of plastic.
Protecting the planet remains a key priority of my Presidency of Hope. I am committed to fully utilizing the convening power of the General Assembly to spur meaningful global actions aimed at protecting the planet. In July, I will convene a High-Level Thematic Debate, entitled a ‘Moment for Nature’ to reflect on solutions and accelerated actions on the environmental agenda.
The adoption of the resolution comes at an opportune moment, when sustainable recovery from the pandemic, guided by the SDGs, has received renewed focus. Promoting sustainable production and consumption of plastics, including product design and waste management, will help preserve our planet, its environments, and our collective well-being.
Over the last 50 years, UNEP has contributed dozens of landmark instruments and agreements that have greatly contributed to the protection of the global environment. The resolution on ending plastic pollution would be an important addition to this portfolio and help solve the triple planetary crisis. We protect our air, land and water. We protect our health, and the health of the planet – ensuring our perpetuity as a species for generations to come.
