Global plastics negotiations include a focus on Arctic Indigenous peoples' concerns

As world delegates prepare for a crucial U.N. meeting in Canada, Arctic Indigenous communities emphasize the urgent need to address plastic pollution impacting their health and environment.

James Bruggers reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• Delegates from nearly 180 countries will meet in Ottawa on April 23 to progress a treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution, considering the lifecycle of plastics from production to disposal.
• Arctic Indigenous representatives will present new scientific findings on the presence of harmful plastics in traditional foods like walruses and seals, highlighting the risks to their communities.
• The negotiations, which have previously stalled, are seen as a critical opportunity to establish a comprehensive global agreement by year's end.

Key quote:

"To learn that these microplastics are ending up in our main foods, but also in our bodies, is yet another alarm for the decision makers."

— Vi Waghiyi, environmental health and justice director, Alaska Community Action on Toxics

Why this matters:

The outcome of these talks is important not only for global environmental health but also for the health outcomes of Arctic populations, who are disproportionately affected by pollution due to their subsistence lifestyles. Read more: “Plastic will overwhelm us:” Scientists say health should be the core of global plastic treaty.