Viet Nam to Participate in Global Negotiations on Plastic Pollution

Once implemented, this agreement is expected to have a profound socio-economic impact, driving a "revolution" in plastic production, consumption, and waste management worldwide.

INC-5 presents an opportunity for Viet Nam to assert its leadership role in the region and position itself as a pioneer in combating plastic pollution, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable development. To ensure effective negotiations, the World Wide Fund for Nature in Viet Nam (WWF-Viet Nam) suggests that countries agree on a list of hazardous plastic products and chemicals to be banned, focusing on those posing severe risks to human health and the environment. The agreement should also establish sustainable product design standards to ensure reusability and recyclability, fostering a circular economy and encouraging business innovation.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Viet Nam emphasizes that Viet Nam's participation in the global treaty should align with its national priorities. These include commitments to reducing virgin plastic production, controlling hazardous chemicals, and implementing reasonable tax and fee mechanisms. Measures such as banning single-use plastics and limiting plastic production could impact Viet Nam's economy, society, and environment. Therefore, ensuring the readiness of businesses and the $25 billion plastic industry to adapt to this agreement is crucial.

Viet Nam's negotiations should also advocate for financial, technical, and capacity-building support for developing countries. This is particularly important for vulnerable groups, such as informal workers and small- and medium-sized enterprises.

One of the most significant challenges will be aligning domestic policies with international commitments. Viet Nam must prepare to amend regulations related to product design, chemical controls, waste management, and tax policies to meet the treaty's requirements.