Mediterranean Sea's Plastic Crisis Urgent, Treaty Elusive
The Mediterranean Sea, a vital yet fragile ecosystem, is grappling with a severe plastic pollution crisis. Containing 7% of the world's microplastics, it poses significant threats to marine life, human health, and economies, particularly tourism. While various initiatives are underway, a legally binding treaty remains elusive.
Our website Med is at the forefront of this battle, developing practical solutions and providing scientific evidence to guide policy and consumer choices. They have successfully piloted zero plastic pollution solutions on Menorca and Cyprus islands, and launched the Mediterranean Urban Pact on plastics. Meanwhile, Members are proposing Motion 059 at the World Conservation Congress, aiming to cut plastic production by 40% by 2040 and phase out single-use plastics.
The Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation, along with international organizations like the Union for the Mediterranean, is exploring collaborations to address this pressing pollution issue. Specific details of an initiative launched in May 2024 are yet to be revealed. The MEDPOL Programme of UNEP oversees the Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Programme, tracking pollution, litter, and noise in the Mediterranean. Despite these efforts, a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution was not adopted at the INC-5.2 negotiations in Geneva.
The Mediterranean Sea's plastic pollution crisis demands urgent, collective action. While progress is being made through initiatives like those led by Med and its Members, stronger global cooperation and policy support are crucial. The failure to adopt a legally binding treaty underscores the need for more robust international commitment to tackle this pressing environmental challenge.
