Marketplace All-in-One No agreement reached on plastic pollution
Aug 14, 2025
Global negotiations on a treaty to combat plastic pollution are hitting major roadblocks, with over 100 countries rejecting the latest draft. The talks highlight a clash between environmental needs and the interests of oil-producing nations. Meanwhile, UK dairy farmers are sounding alarms over a workforce shortage that threatens food security. On a lighter note, the return of Fortnite to Australian smartphones has gamers buzzing with excitement!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Virgin Plastic Production Is The Core Dispute
- Talks to create a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution stalled over whether to cap virgin plastic production.
- Major oil-producing states and petrochemical interests demand lighter regulation, blocking consensus.
Ambition Vs. Legal Force Divides Delegates
- Negotiations fractured as some countries called the draft treaty toothless or lowest common denominator.
- Deep divisions over ambition and legal force undermined chances of a deal.
Rising Plastic Production Threatens Climate And Health
- The OECD warns plastic production could triple by 2060 without intervention, worsening climate and health impacts.
- Smaller nations argue this is the last chance to act to prevent severe environmental harm.