Japan has announced its participation in the "High Ambition Coalition against Plastic Pollution" (HAC), a group formed by countries aiming to reduce plastic production. This coalition already includes G7 countries, except for the United States.
During a meeting in Paris, Takeshi Akahori from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the country is proud to be part of this initiative and shares the coalition's ambition. The news was met with applause and enthusiasm from activists and UN representatives present.
Japan's participation is considered a significant milestone, as the country is a major producer, consumer, and exporter of plastic waste, with a history of investments in incineration as a way to deal with plastic. This change in position is seen as a positive signal by environmental advocates.
However, the United States remains the only wealthy country outside of this coalition. While the US and Saudi Arabia prefer measures that encourage plastic recycling, the high ambition coalition seeks to impose restrictions on plastic production and consumption.
Plastic production has significant impacts on the environment, contributing to global greenhouse gas emissions. Plastics are estimated to be responsible for about 3% of these emissions.
Expectations are that negotiations in Paris will result in the creation of a global treaty to combat plastic pollution by 2024. Discussions involve issues such as the treaty's approach (whether it will be built collaboratively or with more binding measures), voting rules, and financing to help developing countries address the problem.
This initiative reflects the growing global concern about plastic pollution and the need to reduce the environmental impact of this material.
Liked this article? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below and join the conversation!
Komentarze