In March 2022, during the resumed fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2), Member States adopted a historic resolution (UNEA resolution 5/14) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.

The resolution mandated the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) to convene an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to prepare the treaty, based on a comprehensive approach addressing the full life cycle of plastics – from production and design to use and disposal.

The INC began its work in late 2022 with the aim of concluding negotiations by the end of 2024. Negotiators have since met in Uruguay (INC-1), France (INC-2), Kenya (INC-3), Canada (INC-4), the Republic of Korea (INC-5.1), and Switzerland (INC-5.2), with further meetings to finalize the instrument yet to be determined.

As an observer, UNDP follows the technical discussion in the negotiations closely, organizes side events, and engages with Member States and partners to share experiences, offer technical expertise, and explore collaborative solutions. At the national level, UNDP also supports preparations for the negotiations through stakeholder consultations and research.

UNDP stands ready to assist developing countries in meeting future commitments under the global treaty to end plastic pollution through helping governments design and enforce policies and regulations, piloting and scaling up circular and environmentally sound alternatives, strengthening waste management systems, integrating informal waste workers, and promoting behaviour change.