'An Ambitious, Strong and Legally Binding Treaty to Address Plastic Pollution At Global Level"-What would it look like?

Plastic pollution has become a universal crisis whose effects are felt at a global scale. Although available data and evidence indicate that Africa ranks low pertaining to the manufacturing of plastic, it remains one of the biggest consumers of plastic. If trends remain the same, the region is forecasted to record up to 116 million tonnes of plastic waste annually by 2060. This also means that the continent is taking the hardest hit on the effects of plastic pollution, as with climate change. The effect of plastic pollution, compounded by the climate crisis poses serious threats to the sustainable future of the present and future generations. This includes health challenges, access to water and a hazardous environment. Yet as undesirable as the use of plastic may be viewed, it is fundamental to understand that most African communities rely on plastic for their very livelihood. Furthermore, it is crucial to note that vulnerable groups such as women, communities in rural and hard to reach areas due to limited resources and capacity, lack access to alternatives/substitute for plastic. The aim of this discussion paper is to add a voice to what a global approach, fair, legally binding plastic Treaty ought to look like from an intersectional and African lens, which is responsive to the needs and lived realities of vulnerable African communities.