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Nov 12, 2024

Chair Proposes Non-paper as Basis for Talks at Plastic Pollution INC-5 – SDG Knowledge Hub

Ecuador’s Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso, Chair of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop an international legally binding instrument (ILBI) on plastic pollution, including in

Ecuador’s Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso, Chair of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop an international legally binding instrument (ILBI) on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, has shared a non-paper, “suggesting text for those articles where [he believes] there is sufficient convergence.” The non-paper is proposed as a basis for negotiations at the INC’s fifth session.

INC-5 is scheduled to convene from 25 November to 1 December 2024 in Busan, Republic of Korea.

In an introductory note accompanying ‘Non-paper 3 of the Chair of the Committee,’ Vayas explains that the document draws on an earlier non-paper he had shared in advance of the Heads of Delegation meeting that took place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 30 September to 1 October and on the views, proposals, and suggestions expressed during that meeting.

Acknowledging “the rich discourse and steadfast dedication demonstrated by all involved in the INC process to date,” Vayas further indicates that the non-paper “builds on contributions from governments, regional groups, specialized documents, observers, and international organizations with experience in multilateral environmental agreements” (MEAs).

The non-paper includes adjustments to the structure of the Chair’s previous paper “that reflect suggested changes on which views of delegations seemed to converge.” It is underpinned by the “broadly shared” understanding that there is a need to: focus the text on essential elements; make the best use of the seven days remaining at INC-5 to conclude the negotiations; and ensure that the treaty is effective, implementable, and fit for the purpose of ending plastic pollution.

Vayas notes that he has “identified significant convergence areas among delegations on a range of issues under negotiation.” In suggesting text, he says he drew on the elements of the compilation of draft text (UNEP/PP/INC.5/4), “to reflect the essence and intent of the elements in a more concise text.” The Chair’s suggested text is bracketed and, according to his note, “the zero options reflected in the compilation of draft text remain on the table.”

Vayas has also outlined elements for further discussion on unresolved issues, hoping “additional dialogue will foster convergence in time to get a comprehensive agreement in Busan.” Potential work that could be undertaken in the interim period between the Diplomatic Conference of Plenipotentiaries and the first meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) has also been identified.

Vayas urges “delegations at INC-5 to review the document using agreed-upon work procedures, aiming for a consensus that balances interests and reflects shared aspirations.” Reaffirming members’ central role in the negotiations, he commits to fostering dialogue and compromise in the spirit that “nothing is agreed upon until everything is agreed upon.”

The INC Chair states he is optimistic that “with the necessary political will,” the shared goal of an ILBI on plastic pollution by the end of 2024 can be reached in Busan.

The non-paper was released on 30 October 2024. [Publication: Non-paper 3 of the Chair of the Committee] [SDG Knowledge Hub Story on Updates on State of Play in Plastic Treaty Talks Ahead of INC-5] [SDG Knowledge Hub Story on INC-4] [SDG Knowledge Hub Story on INC-3] [SDG Knowledge Hub Story on INC-2] [SDG Knowledge Hub Story on INC-1]