Countries negotiate treaty to tackle global plastic pollution in South Korea

Delegates from 175 countries are meeting in Busan, South Korea, to negotiate a legally binding treaty aimed at reducing global plastic pollution. This is the final phase of the United Nations' Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution, with a decision expected by Sunday. The talks face challenges due to differing views between developing nations and advanced economies, as well as the influence of corporate lobbyists. Key issues include setting reduction targets and regulating hazardous chemicals in plastics. A coalition of 68 countries supports a goal to eliminate new plastic pollution by 2040. The U.S. has shifted its stance, now favoring recycling and circularity over production caps, raising concerns about future commitments under a new administration.