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Representatives of the governments of Germany, Ecuador, Ghana and Vietnam had invited to a first ministerial conference on marine litter in Geneva in September 2021. The aim is to reach a globally binding agreement to protect the environment, especially the oceans, by adapting plastic production, use and recycling in such a way that as little waste as possible is produced.
More than 1000 representatives from 140 countries and non-governmental organisations took part in the talks in Geneva and virtually. The conference was a preparation for the second part of the 5th UN Environment Assembly in February 2022, where a draft UN resolution on marine litter and microplastics presented by Peru and Rwanda in Geneva will be discussed as a binding global agreement. This resolution was adopted at the 5th UN World Climate Conference. According to this resolution, a legally binding agreement on the reduction of marine litter and environmental pollution is to be negotiated by 2024.
Although numerous bans and restrictions on the use of single-use plastics have already brought progress in over 120 countries, it is estimated that the amount entering the world's oceans could triple in the next two decades. Currently, about 12 million tonnes of plastic waste enter the oceans every year. In the process, plastic waste not only damages marine habitats, but also wildlife and human health.
According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), plastic pollution is one of three planetary crises, along with climate change and biodiversity loss.
Climate justice and sustainability are also lived guidelines in the Mull & Partner Group. In particular, M&P GO.BLUE.NOW. is concerned with achieving a climate-friendly future.