An average of 85% of respondents worldwide believe that a forthcoming global plastic pollution treaty should include a ban on single-use plastics, which currently account for over 70% of ocean plastic pollution, according to a survey. WWF and the Plastic Free Foundation commissioned the survey by Ipsos.
With more than 430 million tonnes of virgin plastic produced each year – 60% of which are single-use – and only 9% of that plastic currently recycled worldwide, a global ban on single-use plastics, deemed unnecessary, avoidable, and harmful, is one of several in a suite of urgent measures the public wants to see in the treaty.
SUPPORT FOR URGENT MEASURES
In addition to banning single-use plastics, the survey indicates strong support for other urgent measures to tackle plastic pollution:
- 90% of respondents support banning harmful chemicals used in plastic.
- 87% advocate for banning plastic products that cannot be easily and safely recycled in their respective countries.
These findings underscore the public’s recognition of the multifaceted nature of the plastic pollution crisis and the necessity of comprehensive interventions to address it effectively.
BEYOND BANS: REDESIGNING THE PLASTICS SYSTEM
While bans on single-use plastics are crucial, the survey highlights the widespread understanding that they alone are insufficient to resolve the plastic pollution crisis. Respondents overwhelmingly support redesigning the current plastics system to ensure the safe reuse and recycling of remaining plastics.
Key measures include:
- Mandating manufacturers to invest in and provide reuse and refill systems (supported by 87% of respondents).
- Ensuring all countries has access to funding, technology, and resources for a just transition (supported by 72% of respondents).
- These insights underscore the public’s recognition of the need for systemic change to create a sustainable plastics economy.
TREATY NEGOTIATIONS AND THE PATH FORWARD
The survey results come ahead of the fourth round of plastic pollution treaty negotiations, scheduled to take place in Ottawa, Canada from April 23-29. With only limited time remaining for negotiators to reach a meaningful agreement, there is a pressing need for decisive action to move the process forward.
A CALL TO ACTION
Erin Simon, Vice President and Head of Plastic Waste + Business at WWF-US, emphasizes the urgency of the situation, urging countries to heed the survey results and commit to ending the devastating impacts of plastic pollution. She underscores the need for a legally binding treaty that aligns with the aspirations of both the people and the planet.
BUILDING ON PREVIOUS SURVEYS
The Ipsos survey builds on previous rounds of polling, showcasing consistent and compelling public support for a global plastic pollution treaty. With nearly nine out of 10 people advocating for such a treaty in earlier surveys, there is a clear mandate for governments to prioritize action against plastic pollution.
TOWARD A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
As countries prepare to convene for the upcoming treaty negotiations, the survey findings serve as a powerful reminder of the global imperative to address plastic pollution. By heeding the overwhelming public support for decisive action, governments have an opportunity to forge a path toward a sustainable future, free from the scourge of plastic pollution. Now is the time for bold and collaborative efforts to turn the tide on this pressing environmental challenge.