Global criteria to address problematic, unnecessary and avoidable plastic products

Book excerpt: Available online: https://pub.norden.org/temanord2024-508/ This report provides potential criteria to address problematic, unnecessary and avoidable plastic products at the global level, supporting the objectives of the upcoming international plastics instrument as per UNEA Resolution 5/14. The report notes that over 140 countries have enacted bans or restrictions on specific plastic products, highlighting the need for global criteria to manage not just single-use plastics, but also a wider range of plastic products. It presents possible criteria for determining plastic products into three distinct classifications - problematic, unnecessary, and avoidable – each subject to specific control measures. The report's ultimate aim is to phase out these plastic products through removal, substitution and redesign. A strong science-policy interface is needed to ensure informed listing of these plastic products under the instrument.