Miracle product or pollution nightmare? Why a deal to cut plastic waste is hard to reach
Published: 8/5/2025

At a UN conference in Geneva, world nations are aiming to address the global plastic crisis by discussing a treaty to reduce plastic waste and harmful chemicals. With plastic production levels skyrocketing and significant environmental impacts, countries are seeking to set targets to cut single-use plastics, ban harmful chemicals, and establish universal guidelines for plastic product design. Efforts are being made to reach a consensus on how to curb plastic excesses and minimize the adverse effects of plastics on wildlife, ecosystems, and human health.