The recent meeting on plastics pollution has focused on three main issues critical to addressing the challenges of plastic waste while ensuring trade remains part of the solution. On September 18, delegations discussed capacity building for developing members and the potential creation of domestic inventories related to trade measures.
Discussions centered around enhancing transparency in plastics trade flows, with contributions from organizations like the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). UNITAR provided updates on its work to develop guidelines for measuring plastic flows throughout their life cycle.
Participants examined how domestic efforts could better identify plastic flows entering and exiting economies, relying on specific breakdowns of Harmonized System (HS) codes. Delegations were encouraged to share examples of data or labeling requirements regarding average plastic content in goods, supporting statistical purposes or Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
The WTO Secretariat presented technical discussions from DPP meetings on measures addressing plastics pollution. The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) shared insights into aspects of WTO members' plastics measures that have caused friction with trading partners. Delegations explored guidelines for identifying best practices for trade-related plastics measures (TrPMs) and discussed whether voluntary development of domestic inventories could enhance transparency and facilitate implementation.
Access to technologies and services was another key topic, with presentations from UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), TESS, and the Council on Economic Policies discussing challenges and opportunities in preventing plastics pollution through trade. Members deliberated over relevant policy tools, barriers to accessing technologies, particularly for developing countries, and ways the DPP can facilitate access.
Delegates acknowledged extensive technical work done on these areas aiming at concrete outcomes at MC14. They agreed that these discussions are crucial in shaping future agendas and ensuring meaningful contributions from trade toward solving environmental challenges.
The next meeting will focus on supporting work at the United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop a legally binding instrument on plastics pollution. It will also explore opportunities for harmonization or interoperability of TrPMs and enhanced cooperation on non-plastic substitutes.