Last week in Busan, South Korea, an extraordinary moment unfolded—a moment powered by your passion, your determination, and your voices. Together with WWF and Break Free From Plastic, Greenpeace delivered a petition signed by almost three million people from 182 countries, demanding a historic, legally binding Global Plastics Treaty. This collective call for action is nothing short of inspiring. You’ve made it loud and clear: the world is ready to move beyond plastic pollution and toward a sustainable, healthier future.
A Global Movement, United for Change
This petition isn’t just a collection of signatures; it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and an unwavering demand for justice. It represents millions of people—individuals like you—who care deeply about protecting the planet, our health, and the generations to come.
The delivery of this petition was more than a ceremonial act. It was a rallying cry to decision-makers at the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) meeting in Busan—the most pivotal negotiation yet in the fight to establish a Global Plastics Treaty.
A Powerful Handover in Busan
The petition was presented to Juliet Kabera, Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority, and US Senator Jeff Merkley, symbolizing a bridge between diverse global voices and the decision-makers who can bring about real change.
Renowned poet Nikita Gill, along with South Korean youth activists and Baby Climate Plaintiffs Hannah Kim and Jeah Han, led the event. Their presence underscored the urgency of this issue and the need for intergenerational action.
Nikita Gill reminded us:
“I am here in Busan today, representing the voices of millions worldwide who are asking our world leaders to put our beautiful planet before profits during this week’s Plastics Treaty negotiations. I hope these voices are being heard and can inspire key decision-makers because this is our only chance to secure a treaty that will drastically reduce plastic production and use for the sake of our collective future.”
Why a Global Plastics Treaty Matters
A strong, legally binding Global Plastics Treaty has the potential to transform the way we produce, use, and manage plastics worldwide. Here’s what it could achieve:
1. Drastically Reduce Plastic Production
By addressing plastics at the source, the treaty can limit unnecessary production and shift toward sustainable alternatives.
© Noel Celis / Greenpeace
Voices of Leadership
The significance of this treaty was reinforced by global leaders at the INC-5 negotiations:
Graham Forbes, Greenpeace Head of Delegation, said:
“These signatures are more than a million reasons why the world cannot continue on this path of unchecked plastic production. The negotiation that will happen here in Busan this week is an unmissable chance to move away from harmful throwaway culture and create a future where our health, climate, and planet thrive.”
Thank You for Leading the Way
To everyone who signed, shared, and stood up: thank you. Your commitment has brought us to this critical moment. While the road ahead will require even more determination, the movement to end plastic pollution is stronger than ever—and it’s thanks to you.
Sign the petition for a strong Global Plastics Treaty
Governments around the world are now negotiating a Global Plastics Treaty – an agreement that could solve the planetary crisis brought by runaway plastic production. Let’s end the age of plastic – sign the petition for a strong Global Plastics Treaty now.
