Context:

• The ongoing third session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3) at the United Nations Environment Programme headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, has focused on the 3Rs of waste management (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). 

Key Highlights of Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC- 3) Meeting:

• On the sidelines of Day 3 proceedings of the INC-3, a Break Free From Plastic (BFFP) representative carried out a panel discussion focused on prioritizing reuse solutions in the global plastics treaty. 
  • The discussion addressed by expert panelists from Europe, Indonesia, Spain, and other countries came up with innovative solutions on the topic key to addressing the plastic crisis.
• One of the key considerations at INC-3 will be the launch of negotiations on the ‘Zero draft text of the international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.

About Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3)

• Genesis: The resolution (5/14) requested the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) to convene an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop “the instrument,” which is to be based on a comprehensive approach that addresses the full life cycle of plastic, including its production, design, and disposal.
• The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) came into existence in  2022, at the 5th session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2).

News Source: DTE