Isha Timbo, a Sierra Leonean environmental activist, was thrilled to be part of the third session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee #INC3, which took place from the 13th-19th November 2023, at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya1. During the session, she highlighted the need for an international legally binding instrument to address plastic pollution, including in the marine environment1.
According to a report by the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), plastic pollution is a global emergency that requires a robust UN treaty2. The treaty is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024, and between now and then, negotiators will have the daunting task of devising and agreeing to rules and strategies for controlling plastic pollution1.
As Isha Timbo rightly pointed out, individuals, businesses, and governments must embrace sustainable practices to reduce plastic consumption, promote recycling, and embrace innovative alternatives to achieve a common goal #beatplasticpollution1. The cost of plastic pollution to society, including environmental clean-up and ecosystem degradation, exceeds US$100 billion a year2. Therefore, it is imperative that we take collective action to drive the much-needed change and foster a global shift towards a more sustainable plastic-free future1. ommunications Unit*