INC5.2 Policy Brief: International Cooperation model for the future Plastics Treaty, with a focus on biodiversity and OneHealth

This brief includes IUCN-proposed text to Article 12 “Capacity Building, Technical Assistance and Technology Transfer, including on “International Cooperation” and Article 19 on "Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Human Health"  highlighted for readers.

Importantly, IUCN calls for a future Plastics Treaty that is science-based and includes:

• References to all phases of the plastics lifecycle - from extraction, production, reuse, recycle to waste management and end of life based on UNEA Resolution 5/14 and as set out in Article 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 of the Chair's Text.

• Specific textual language relating to international cooperation and coordination between the treaty's governance body and the governance mechanisms for other multilateral environmental agreements such as the BRS Conventions and the GBF, and other relevant international and regional law instruments and organizations as well as scientific institutions, in a revised iteration of Article 12 Chair’s Text on “Capacity Building, Technical Assistance and Technology Transfer, including on “International Cooperation”.

• A reference on protection of biodiversity and ecosystems from legacy and future plastic pollution, as a standalone article, or specific language in a revised iteration of Article 19 Chair’s Text on “Health”, following a biodiversity and health linked approach.