The United Nations Environment Assembly resolution to end plastic pollution: Challenges to effective policy interventions

Md Saidul Islam (), Zach Lee (), Adha Shaleh () and Han Sen Soo ()
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Md Saidul Islam: Nanyang Technological University
Zach Lee: Nanyang Technological University
Adha Shaleh: Division of Sociology, School of Social Sciences
Han Sen Soo: Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, 2024, vol. 26, issue 5, No 2, 10927-10944

Abstract: Abstract The international community has recognized the significance of plastic pollution, and there is a growing consensus among governments, organizations, and communities that action is urgently needed. The United Nations Environment Assembly's resolution to combat plastic pollution demonstrates the global commitment to tackling this issue. By focusing on plastic pollution, our article aims to contribute to the ongoing efforts to develop policy interventions that align with international commitments and effectively address this pressing environmental challenge. Using the literature review method, this article investigates the world’s plastic interventions to provide contemporary policy perspectives in sustainable plastic waste management. By integrating a comprehensive analysis of an evolving issue from various international perspectives, this article revisits and explores effective solutions to combat plastic pollution. We ask the key question: What are the policy interventions that have changed key stakeholders’ behaviour towards plastics? The analysis reveals five distinct themes in policy interventions that align with the ambitious United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) resolution to end plastic pollution: (1) Addressing the plastic waste with regulations, (2) Collective responsibilities in plastic reduction, (3) Concerns in waste management and collection, (4) Enhancing collection efforts through education, and (5) The importance of technology to end plastic pollution. We conclude with remarks on the importance of integrated approaches to the entire plastic life cycle from the beginning of its production to the end users in order to end plastic pollution.

Keywords: Contemporary policy interventions; Holistic framework; Plastic pollution; Plastic life cycle; UNEA resolution (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s10668-023-03639-6

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