The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) on a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution met in Geneva from 5 to 14 August 2025. The session brought together more than 1,400 delegates from 183 countries and nearly 1,000 observers from NGOs, industry bodies, and international institutions.
Agreement still out of reach
Despite the presentation of two draft texts, no compromise was reached. The main sticking points included:
- the scope of the treaty (full life cycle of plastics vs. waste management only),
- the introduction of caps on virgin plastic production, backed by the EU but opposed by major producing countries,
- the level of legal enforceability (binding global measures vs. voluntary approaches),
- the financing and implementation mechanisms.
What’s next?
- The INC Bureau will shortly announce the next steps and venue for the resumption of talks.
- The High Ambition Coalition (EU, Canada, Norway, several African and Latin American countries) is pushing for a treaty covering the entire plastic life cycle.
- NGOs are calling for a reform of the process to limit lobbying influence.
- Some propose the creation of voluntary state coalitions willing to advance outside the strict UN framework.
Implications for industry and for MATISSART
Even without an agreement, Geneva has sent clear signals:
- virgin plastic production is now central to the global debate,
- manufacturers must prepare for a progressive shift towards greater circularity,
- proactive companies, like MATISSART, focusing on recyclability, energy efficiency, and circular economy practices will gain a competitive advantage.
At Matissart, two key levers are being deployed:
- Reduced energy consumption: through the exclusive 3D JET COOLING© technology, which shortens cycle times and optimises energy efficiency.
- Durability and circularity: with comprehensive maintenance, repair, and modification services extending the lifespan of all types of moulds – Matissart or other brands – thereby reducing the need for new resources.
