RCA INC-5 Update: Navigating the Roadblocks to a Global Plastics Treaty
The Fifth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) on Plastic Pollution concluded on December 1, 2024, in Busan, South Korea, without a final agreement, underscoring the complex challenges of achieving a unified global plastics treaty. Here’s an update on the key roadblocks:
Three Points of Contention
- Scope of the Treaty: Debate continues over whether the treaty should address the entire lifecycle of plastics, including production, or focus solely on post-consumer waste.
- Definition of Plastic Pollution: Disagreements persist, with some nations advocating for a broad definition that includes emissions and hazardous substances from production, while others narrow the focus to end-of-life management.
- Binding vs. Voluntary Commitments: Countries remain divided over whether the treaty should enforce binding commitments or adopt a voluntary framework, reflecting diverse national priorities and capacities.
Perspectives on INC-5
Insights from Oceana Canada reveal a growing demand to phase out non-essential and non-recyclable plastics. Health and environmental concerns now take precedence over carbon footprint considerations in the public narrative.
Doctors and wellness activists are increasingly vocal about the health impacts of plastic additives. For example, while BPA is banned in regions like South Korea and the EU, it remains permitted in Alberta and across Canada, raising consumer concerns about inconsistent regulations. This growing awareness mirrors movements like the preference for beet dye over Red Dye-40 in the U.S., emphasizing transparency and safer alternatives.
Canada reaffirmed its commitment to an ambitious treaty by championing a full-lifecycle approach to plastics. As part of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, Canada aligns its global efforts with domestic initiatives like the Federal Plastics Registry and actions on PFAS.
Quote:
“As we face compounding crises affecting our planet, we have a historic opportunity to tackle plastic pollution through this global agreement. Canada is committed to leading the way in developing an ambitious, science-based agreement that evolves with new knowledge and incorporates Indigenous perspectives. Together with our international partners, we will work tirelessly to finalize a strong and effective agreement by the end of this year to end plastic pollution and protect our planet for future generations.”
— The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
The Foundation emphasized the importance of binding global rules across the full lifecycle of plastics, highlighting the need to restrict problematic plastics and ensure sustainable virgin plastic production levels.
Quote:
“This moment is bigger than plastic pollution. In a time of great division, governments ought to seize this opportunity to show that the world can meet global challenges with global solutions.”
— Rob Opsomer, Executive Lead on Plastics & Finance, Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Next Steps
Despite the lack of consensus, INC-5 will reconvene in 2025 to further negotiations. The global community must decide whether to pursue a weak treaty with universal support or champion bold, enforceable measures to address the plastics crisis comprehensively.
Here at home, the Alberta government remains committed to its Natural Gas Strategy goal of making Alberta the western North American centre of excellence for plastics diversion and recycling by 2030. Discussions and collaborations are underway, with more information to be shared in 2025.

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