WASHINGTON – In response to news that the United States will support provisions in the global plastics treaty to reduce the production of new plastics, signaling a shift from their previous position, Ocean Conservancy’s Associate Director of U.S. Plastics Policy, Dr. Anja Brandon, issued the following statement:

“We are deeply excited that the U.S. is shifting its position to support a reduction in plastics production in the treaty. The science is clear: to truly tackle plastic pollution, we need to start upstream by making less plastic in the first place.  And it’s what the American people want – 78% of Americans consider plastic pollution entering the ocean a pressing problem.

“Ocean Conservancy has been championing reduction as one of our major priorities in the Global Plastics Treaty, calling for a 50% reduction in single-use plastics by 2050. We look forward to seeing the U.S. build upon this new position by supporting an ambitious, time-bound reduction target. As scientists, we know that our goals are only as strong as what we can measure, which is why it is so important that we set clear, measurable targets to hold the world accountable to reducing plastics.

“As we approach the upcoming negotiations in Busan, the U.S. has the opportunity to lead this effort and set an example for other nations to follow, ensuring that our ocean is protected for generations to come.”

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