Civil society groups are urging negotiators at the Global Plastics Treaty talks in Nairobi to agree on measures that effectively address plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle. 

Actions were held by various organizations in support of countries, including those from Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Pacific Island nations, and the Philippines, advocating for strong treaty measures.

With the final round of negotiations scheduled for later this year in Busan, South Korea, civil society groups, Indigenous Peoples, and scientists have called for legally binding rules that cut plastic production and address the entire supply chain. 

Since the treaty process began in 2022, these groups have pushed for measures that include targets on reducing plastic production and phasing out plastic polymers.

“Over 400 million tonnes of plastics are produced annually, affecting our planet and all living things. This is not the time to lower ambition due to a minority of countries blocking progress,” said Ana Rocha, Global Plastics Policy Director of the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA). “Governments must listen to the millions calling for a strong treaty to end plastic pollution.”

The groups also demand the removal of hazardous chemicals used in plastics, noting that over 4,200 chemicals are harmful to humans and the environment.

“A treaty that does not focus on reducing primary plastic polymers and eliminating harmful chemicals will continue to harm Indigenous and frontline communities,” said Frankie Orona, Executive Director of the Society of Native Nations. 

“We support the High Ambition Coalition’s goal to end plastic pollution by 2040 and call for at least a 75% reduction in primary plastic production by 2030,” Orona added. 

Other key demands include support for reuse systems, financial mechanisms for resource flow from developed to developing countries, and measures to ensure a just transition for workers affected by changes in the plastic supply chain.

“As we reduce plastic production, we must ensure a just transition to reuse systems, which can reduce plastic waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and resource consumption,” said Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner at Greenpeace Southeast Asia – Philippines. 

Ledesma stressed the need for “ambitious reuse targets reflected in the treaty” alongside plastic reduction measures.

“As we approach the final negotiations, ambition should not be sacrificed for speed,” said Jacob Kean-Hammerson, Ocean Campaigner at the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA). “Ending plastic pollution requires both binding control measures and sufficient funding.”

Civil society groups also raised concerns about limited transparency in the negotiation process, citing restricted access to meetings and participation.

“Excluding pathways for observer participation ignores the perspectives of Indigenous Peoples and frontline communities impacted by plastic pollution,” said Merrisa Naidoo of GAIA Africa.