People Demand Action on Plastic Pollution: Guterres
October 30, 2024
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged governments and businesses to take swift and decisive action to address the growing crisis of plastic pollution, which is choking our planet and harming human health.
In a speech at the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) in Nairobi, Guterres called on the international community to “move from pledges to action” and implement “bold and transformative solutions” to tackle plastic pollution.
Plastic Pollution Crisis
Plastic pollution has become a major environmental threat, with millions of tons of plastic waste accumulating in our oceans, waterways, and landfills each year. It harms wildlife, disrupts ecosystems, and poses risks to human health.
According to Guterres, plastic pollution has also become a “threat multiplier,” exacerbating other environmental challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
Public Demand for Action
Guterres emphasized that the public is increasingly demanding action on plastic pollution. He pointed to recent surveys showing that 90% of people globally believe that plastic pollution is a serious problem, and 80% support measures to reduce plastic waste.
“People want action,” said Guterres. “They are tired of seeing our oceans and waterways filled with plastic. They are tired of inhaling microplastics in the air and finding them in their food and water. They are tired of the harm plastic pollution is doing to our environment and our health.”
Call for Action
In response to this public demand, Guterres urged governments and businesses to:
- Set ambitious targets for reducing plastic pollution and investing in research and innovation.
- Promote sustainable alternatives to plastic, such as reusable products and biodegradable materials.
- Improve waste management systems to ensure efficient collection, recycling, and disposal of plastic waste.
- Educate the public about the need to reduce plastic consumption and improve waste habits.
- Foster international cooperation to address plastic pollution as a global problem.
International Agreement
Guterres also highlighted the importance of negotiating a strong international agreement on plastic pollution. He called for a treaty that sets global standards and provides a framework for cooperation on research, innovation, and waste management.
“A global agreement would provide a much-needed catalyst for action,” said Guterres. “It would send a clear signal to governments, businesses, and the public that the international community is serious about tackling plastic pollution.”
Time for Action
Guterres concluded his speech by emphasizing the urgency of taking action on plastic pollution. He warned that if we fail to act now, “the consequences for our planet and our future will be severe.”
“We cannot afford to delay any longer,” said Guterres. “The time for action is now. Let us work together to create a plastic-smart future for all.”
People want action on plastic pollution that’s choking us: Guterres
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