In a landmark move, the United Nations has officially launched a global initiative aimed at tackling the escalating crisis of plastic pollution. Representatives from 175 countries have convened in Nairobi, Kenya, to begin negotiations on a legally binding treaty that targets the full lifecycle of plastic, from production to disposal.

The initiative follows alarming reports indicating that over 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the oceans annually — a number projected to triple by 2040 if no action is taken. The proposed treaty will focus on promoting sustainable alternatives, reducing single-use plastics, and enhancing waste management infrastructure worldwide.

UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen emphasized that plastic pollution is not only an environmental issue, but also a social and economic one. “We need a holistic approach that involves governments, industries, and communities,” she stated.

Civil society groups and environmental activists welcomed the move, calling it a "turning point" in the fight against plastic waste. However, some industries have raised concerns about the economic impact of stricter regulations, particularly in developing nations that rely on plastic manufacturing.

The first draft of the treaty is expected by mid-2026, with hopes of finalization and adoption by 2027. Until then, interim measures will be encouraged, including national bans on certain plastics, corporate commitments, and investment in innovation.