UN Chief Urges Bold, Fair Deal to End Plastic Pollution

"We need an ambitious, credible and just agreement this year," he said in a message, marking the World Environment Day that focuses on solutions to beat plastic pollution.

One that covers the life-cycle of plastic, through the perspective of circular economies and that responds to the needs of communities, aligns with broader environmental goals, the sustainable development goals, and beyond and that is implemented fast and in full.

"I urge negotiators to return to talks in August determined to build a common path through their differences and deliver the treaty our world needs," Guterres said.

"Together, let’s end the scourge of plastic pollution and build a better future for us all," he said.

Plastic pollution is choking our planet – harming ecosystems, well-being, and the climate, said the UN Secretary-General.

Plastic waste clogs rivers, pollutes the ocean, and endangers wildlife, he said.

"And as it breaks-down into smaller and smaller parts, it infiltrates every corner of Earth: from the top of Mount Everest, to the depths of the ocean; from human brains; to human breastmilk," Guterres said.

Yet there is a movement for urgent change, he said, adding that they are seeing mounting public engagement, steps towards reusability and greater accountability and policies to reduce single-use plastics and improve waste management. "But we must go further, faster."

World Environment Day is the biggest international day for the environment.

Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and held annually since 1973, it has grown to be the largest global platform for environmental outreach.

It is celebrated by millions of people across the world.

The Republic of Korea is hosting World Environment Day 2025 with a focus on ending plastic pollution globally.

Ridding the planet of plastic pollution is an important contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including those on climate action, sustainable production and consumption, protection of seas and oceans and repairing ecosystems and retaining biodiversity, reports UNB.