Negotiations in Geneva during mid-August 2025 to draft a global treaty on plastic pollution concluded without reaching an agreement. Delegates from nearly 100 countries supported limits on plastic production, but major oil-producing nations, including Saudi Arabia and the United States, opposed such measures. They argued that production caps would threaten economic stability and industrial growth. Instead, these nations promoted recycling, reuse, and product design as sufficient alternatives. Data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development showed that the world currently produces more than 400 million tons of plastic annually, and without major reforms, production could increase by about 70% by 2040. According to United Nations data, plastics were responsible for around 1.8 billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions in 2019, representing about 3.4 percent of worldwide emissions.

Experts emphasized that recycling remains highly problematic. OECD figures revealed that only 6% of plastic is effectively recycled, due to its varied chemical compositions, colors, and types. In comparison, recycling rates for paper, cardboard, and steel are significantly higher. Environmental organizations described plastic recycling as costly, inefficient, and harmful to nearby communities because of pollution from processing plants. Industry representatives supported an “all-of-the-above approach,” highlighting the need for improved recycling systems and material innovations. However, critics argued that recycling frequently depends on virgin plastic, contributes to microplastic pollution, and introduces additional chemicals. Specialists stressed that the most effective solutions involve reducing production, expanding reusable products, and redesigning packaging for easier recycling. Progress has also been made in developing alternatives such as seaweed-based materials, though widespread adoption remains limited.