“Let us not lose hope that with determination and cooperation, the INC can deliver an agreement that tackles plastic pollution comprehensively and safeguards the health of our planet for generations to come,” said Chair Cardin.
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued a statement on the adjournment of the fifth International Negotiation Committee (INC-5) discussions on a binding international agreement to end plastic pollution.
“This week, delegates to INC-5 concluded their latest round of negotiations without reaching consensus on a binding global treaty to combat plastic pollution. While it might be easy to call this a failure, building a global consensus on an issue of this scale requires exceptional creativity and thoughtful compromise. This is by no means the end of the process, and negotiators must prepare to reconvene in the new year to continue this critical work with a renewed commitment to achieving this important new international agreement.
“What’s at risk is nothing less than our future. Plastic pollution is choking our oceans, harming wildlife, and endangering human health. The United States has a unique opportunity to lead these efforts and demonstrate that global cooperation can deliver effective, equitable solutions to urgent environmental challenges. The outcome of this treaty will impact consumers, workers, industries, and communities across America – including those most vulnerable to the harmful effects of plastic pollution.
“For Maryland, whose coastal economy depends on clean, thriving oceans, this agreement is especially urgent. The billions of dollars in economic activity generated by our coastline are at risk if we fail to act. But this is about more than any single state. It’s about ensuring a healthier, safer future for all communities and protecting the natural resources that sustain us.
“The upcoming negotiations offer the United States a chance to show the world how principled leadership can address shared global challenges. Let us not lose hope that with determination and cooperation, the INC can deliver an agreement that tackles plastic pollution comprehensively and safeguards the health of our planet for generations to come.”
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