A recent survey by Greenpeace International, conducted by Censuswide, revealed that the Philippines is the leading advocate for reducing plastic production. 

The survey, which included 19,088 people from 19 countries, found that 94 percent of Filipino respondents support a cap on plastic production to combat pollution, preserve biodiversity, and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Released ahead of the fourth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC4) meeting for a Global Plastics Treaty in Ottawa, Canada, the survey shows a strong Filipino backing for the ban of single-use plastic packaging, with 88 percent in favor.

Similarly, Filipinos and Indonesians share a high concern, at 97 percent, for the treaty to enforce shifts from single-use to reusable and refillable packaging.

The health impacts of plastics are a significant worry, with 94 percent of Filipinos concerned about their loved ones and 93% about their own health. 

Marian Ledesma, a campaigner for Greenpeace Philippines, highlighted the Filipinos’ desire for effective solutions to plastic pollution. 

She expressed hope that these findings would influence the Philippine delegation to advocate for a treaty that includes drastic cuts in plastic production.

“The government should also institute laws to limit plastic production by banning single-use disposable plastics and establishing reuse and refill systems across the country,” she said. 

As the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations near, the challenge lies in overcoming resistance from industries and certain nations against strict provisions. 

Greenpeace urges governments to commit to reducing plastic production and transitioning away from virgin production capacity, aiming for a future with less plastic pollution.