A recent global study has brought to light the significant contributions of major brands to plastic waste, underscoring the urgency of addressing this environmental crisis through robust and enforceable measures. Analyzing data from 2018 to 2022 across 84 countries, the study identified that half of the plastic items found were unbranded, indicating a lack of accountability and transparency in plastic production and waste management. Notably, five corporations—The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, Nestlé, Danone, and Altria—were responsible for 24% of the branded plastic waste, revealing a strong correlation between a company’s plastic production and its pollution footprint.
The findings of this study align closely with the recommendations outlined in IndyACT’s position paper on plastic pollution.
IndyACT emphasizes the need to address the entire lifecycle of plastics, including production by major companies. It advocates for global Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies to shift waste management to producers, encouraging better design and waste reduction. The organization’s paper calls for comprehensive measures from production to disposal, focusing on upstream interventions and sustainable design. Additionally, IndyACT supports a robust treaty with enforceable objectives covering the plastics lifecycle and highlights the need to phase out plastics with toxic additives and promote reusable alternatives.
As world leaders discuss the Global Plastics Treaty, it is crucial to incorporate these insights and advocate for comprehensive, enforceable measures to tackle plastic pollution effectively.
Together, we can advocate for a cleaner, greener world. Join us in supporting the Global Plastics Treaty and take action to end plastic pollution.
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