Phl must stand for a strong plastics treaty

As the fifth and final session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) to develop a Global Plastics Treaty resumes, our nation faces a critical moment.

- MARIAN LEDESMA

The stakes are clear: our health, climate, biodiversity, food and oceans are on the line.

Will the treaty curb the plastic pollution crisis threatening Filipino communities, or will it bow to the pressure of oil-producing states and the plastic industry?

For the Philippines, a strong treaty means maintaining and strengthening its position in pushing for bold policies to reduce plastic production and protect vulnerable communities.

Filipinos have been bearing the brunt of plastic pollution, even as production continues to rise.

Filipino scientists have found microplastics in fish, the country's waters and even the air we breathe.

Meanwhile, communities near plastic production and disposal sites are disproportionately affected, suffering from respiratory diseases and exposure to toxic pollutants.

Managing the worsening plastic problem is also depleting the country's resources and straining capacity, with local governments already overwhelmed by the sheer volume of plastic waste.