Efforts to finalize a global treaty on plastic pollution hit a roadblock during the resumed fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2), held from August 5–14 in Geneva. Despite extensive deliberations, participating nations failed to reach consensus on the draft agreement.

Plastic remains integral to modern life — from food packaging and medical equipment to aerospace and automotive manufacturing. The U.S. delegation advocated for flexible, country-specific strategies that reduce environmental harm without undermining industries that depend on plastic for innovation and affordability.

American negotiators opposed rigid, top-down regulations, warning they could stifle technological progress and trigger inflation. Instead, they pushed for pragmatic solutions that balance sustainability with economic resilience.

The talks underscore the complexity of crafting a legally binding global framework that addresses pollution while respecting national priorities.