As an individual who has witnessed the devastating impact of plastic waste on our planet, I understand the urgency of the matter.  The world is struggling against plastic pollution that damages our landscapes, contaminates our waters, and harms human health.

Today, we propose that the international community combine the efforts of the proposed global agreement to end plastics pollution, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and top practices from leading countries.  We need to construct a treaty that advocates for improved recycling policies and an end to widespread plastic waste.

According to studies, 12.7 million tons of plastic enter our oceans yearly—expected to triple by 2040 (Source: Pew Charitable Trusts and Systemic).  The UN Environment Program reveals that if all governments implemented EPR policies, 63% of plastic packaging waste could be efficiently managed (Source: UNEP).  Countries like Norway, for instance, have successfully achieved a 97% recovery rate for plastic bottles, showing internationally approved practices work (Source: Infinitum).

Endorsing this proposal will unify our struggles and create a healthier Earth.  Let us meld the proposed global agreement to end plastic pollution, EPR, and international best practices and form a sustainable world for us and future generations.  Please sign the petition to drive this change.

I recently embarked on a journey to write a legal research paper on recycling and international environmental law.  I found that the current framework offers no consistency when trying to regulate recycling across the globe.  The time is now to pressure the creators of the Global Treaty to End Plastic Pollution to combine the efforts of the top states worldwide and force the most significant states to commit to immediate action. 

There is mass confusion in the US regarding what is recyclable and what is not.  Only the number 1 and 2 types of plastic are recyclable with home recycling.  Numbers 3-7 are very difficult to recycle and often cause contamination of number 1 and 2 products, which results in those items being sent to incineration or the landfill.  It is time to educate consumers on the responsibility of the plastic manufacturer to end single-use plastics and use only the number 1 HDPE and number 2 PETE to allow for ease of recycling. 

Lastly, we need big oil to take responsibility for the decades-long scheme touting recycling as the answer.  They have known for 30 years that recycling is impossible and have spent billions of dollars trying to convince consumers otherwise.  The attorney general in California has filed a massive lawsuit bringing these allegations to light in the legal system. 

It's time to take a stance on plastics and recycling!