Global Plastic Treaty Signed by 150 Nations in Nairobi
A legally binding international treaty to end plastic pollution was signed by 150 nations at the UN Environment Assembly in Nairobi.
2-Minute Summary (TL;DR)
- 150 nations signed the legally binding 'Global Plastic Treaty' in Nairobi, Kenya.
- The treaty aims to end plastic pollution by the year 2040.
- It is the first international agreement to address the full lifecycle of plastic: production, design, and disposal.
- Mandatory targets for reducing virgin plastic production are a key component of the treaty.
- The treaty includes provisions for technical and financial assistance to developing countries.
- India championed the 'principle of common but differentiated responsibilities' during negotiations.
- The agreement is considered a landmark step comparable in significance to the Paris Agreement.
- The treaty promotes the transition towards a circular economy model for plastics.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC / State PCS | Very High | 12–20 | Environment and Ecology is a separate section in UPSC Prelims. GS-III includes environment, climate change, and disaster management. |
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | High | 3–5 | National parks, Ramsar sites, pollution levels, and climate summits appear in SSC GK. |
Key Facts to Remember: Global Plastic Treaty Signed by 150 Nations in Nairobi
- 150 nations signed the legally binding 'Global Plastic Treaty' in Nairobi, Kenya.
- The treaty aims to end plastic pollution by the year 2040.
- It is the first international agreement to address the full lifecycle of plastic: production, design, and disposal.
- Mandatory targets for reducing virgin plastic production are a key component of the treaty.
- The treaty includes provisions for technical and financial assistance to developing countries.
- India championed the 'principle of common but differentiated responsibilities' during negotiations.
- The agreement is considered a landmark step comparable in significance to the Paris Agreement.
- The treaty promotes the transition towards a circular economy model for plastics.
Practice Questions
Q1. Where was the 'Global Plastic Treaty' signed by 150 nations?
- Geneva, Switzerland
- Paris, France
- Nairobi, Kenya
- New York, USA
Explanation: The historic 'Global Plastic Treaty' was signed by 150 nations at the UN Environment Assembly held in Nairobi, Kenya. This location was chosen for the significant environmental summit.
Q2. What is the primary target year set by the Global Plastic Treaty to end plastic pollution?
- 2030
- 2035
- 2040
- 2050
Explanation: The ambitious goal of the Global Plastic Treaty is to bring an end to plastic pollution by the year 2040. This requires significant global efforts in reducing production and improving waste management.
Q3. Which aspect of plastic does the Global Plastic Treaty address for the first time with a legally binding international instrument?
- Only plastic waste disposal
- Only plastic recycling initiatives
- The full lifecycle of plastic (production, design, and disposal)
- Microplastic research funding
Explanation: The Global Plastic Treaty is groundbreaking as it is the first legally binding international agreement to address the entire lifecycle of plastic, encompassing its production, design, and eventual disposal, not just waste management.
Q4. Which principle did India play a key role in advocating for during the negotiations of the Global Plastic Treaty?
- Universal plastic ban
- Principle of common but differentiated responsibilities
- Mandatory recycling quotas for all nations
- Immediate cessation of virgin plastic production
Explanation: India was instrumental in advocating for the 'principle of common but differentiated responsibilities'. This principle acknowledges that nations have different capacities and historical contributions to environmental issues, ensuring a more equitable approach to global agreements.
Q5. Besides setting reduction targets, what crucial support does the Global Plastic Treaty offer to developing countries?
- Only technological sanctions
- Financial and technical assistance
- Exclusive access to plastic recycling patents
- Mandatory technology transfer without compensation
Explanation: The treaty recognizes the challenges faced by developing nations and includes vital provisions for offering them substantial technical and financial assistance. This support is aimed at helping them transition effectively towards a circular economy and implement sustainable practices.
How to Prepare Environment for Government Exams — Global Plastic Treaty Signed by 150 Nations in Na…
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For UPSC, understand the international treaty context: Paris Agreement, CBD, CITES, Ramsar — know what each treaty does.
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