More than 150 countries gathered to participate in the first session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee for an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution. The call from the countries was clear – to end plastic pollution, we need a international instrument that covers the entire life cycle of plastics. Among other things, the countries discussed the instrument’s overall objectives and the commitments it may include. 

“Without effective action, global plastic production is predicted to triple by 2060 and large amounts of plastic will end up in our environment and oceans. Regulating plastic pollution on a global level is therefore an important step that can contribute to the climate transition, as well as protect the oceans, the environment and biodiversity,” says Minister for Climate and Environment Romina Pourmokhtari.

There was great interest from the business sector, environmental organisations and the scientific community, and a one-day forum with these stakeholders was held prior to the meeting. Roundtable discussions enabled member countries and stakeholders to share experiences and lessons learned.    

Sweden participated in the negotiations as holder of the Presidency of the Council of the EU and pushed the EU’s position and priorities at the meeting. This was the first of five planned negotiation sessions, with the next due to be held in France in the first half of 2023.