Still No Agreement for Global Treaty on Plastic Pollution in Geneva

Luxembourg participated in negotiations for a global treaty on plastic pollution in Geneva, with the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity (MECB) participated from 5 to 14 August 2025.

The second part of the fifth meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee was held to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution (INC-5.2); the work of this committee has been conducted since 2022 under a mandate from the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) and was monitored by MECB experts.

Following the failure to reach an agreement at the previous meeting in December 2024, the committee met in Geneva for an additional session. This meeting also failed to complete the difficult work of the past three years. Given the scope and multidimensional nature of plastic pollution, several topics continue to be at the heart of the discussions, including plastic production, chemicals of concern and problematic plastic products, product design, financing and the decision-making mechanisms for the future treaty. The meeting was therefore adjourned and will resume at a date to be determined.

However, according to the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity (MECB), the joint work has made considerable progress, resulting in a new, improved draft text.

Serge Wilmes, Minister of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity stated: "Plastic pollution is a major global challenge that can only be addressed through a collective effort and by considering the entire life cycle of plastics. It is regrettable that no agreement has been reached today, despite the efforts and willingness to compromise we have demonstrated as the European Union throughout the negotiations. The fight against plastic pollution is a long-term battle, but it is imperative that we move forward together."