UN chief: Time for bold action on plastic pollution

United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres has reiterated calls for an end to plastic pollution, noting that in two months, countries will come together to hammer out a new global treaty in this regard.

In his message to mark the occasion of World Environment Day, which was observed on Thursday, Guterres pointed to the need for an ambitious, credible and just agreement this year — one which covers the life cycle of plastic through the perspective of circular economies.

“This World Environment Day focuses on solutions to beat plastic pollution. And rightly so. Plastic pollution is choking our planet – harming ecosystems, well-being, and the climate. Plastic waste clogs rivers, pollutes the ocean, and endangers wildlife. And as it breaks-down into smaller and smaller parts, it infiltrates every corner of earth,“ the Secretary General stated.

He posited that there is movement for urgent change, as there is mounting public engagement, with steps towards reusability and greater accountability.

The Secretary General urged negotiators to “return to talks in August with the determination to build a common path through their differences and deliver the treaty our world needs.”

Guterres noted that while there are policies to reduce single-use plastics and improve waste management, societies must delve further and act quickly in the move towards an agreement that responds to the needs of the environment.

“[One] That responds to the needs of communities… That aligns with broader environmental goals, the sustainable development goals, and beyond… And that is implemented fast and in full. I urge negotiators to return to talks in August determined to build a common path through their differences and deliver the treaty our world needs. Together, let’s end the scourge of plastic pollution and build a better future for us all,” the Secretary General reiterated.

World Environment Day has been observed annually since 1973 in a united, global mission to protect and restore the planet.

This year, the Republic of Korea hosted the World Environment Day official commemoration, with immense focus on ending plastic pollution.

World Environment Day 2025 was observed under the theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution.”

This year’s theme also supports the mandate of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution, which will continue its fifth session later this year.