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  • Press Release

Plastic Makers Support Global Agreement to Eliminate Plastic Waste, Welcome U.S. Leadership

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Matthew Kastner
CONTACT US

WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 18, 2021) – Today Secretary Antony Blinken made remarks in support of a multilateral agreement to end plastic waste in the environment. The following statement from the American Chemistry Council (ACC) may be attributed to Joshua Baca, vice president of plastics:

“ACC appreciates the U.S. Department of State’s continued leadership in the United Nation’s Environment Assembly (UNEA) to address many of the major environmental challenges facing the globe today, including plastic waste in the environment. We are supportive of a global agreement among nations that will accelerate a transition to a more circular economy by expanding systems and infrastructure to collect and repurpose plastic resources.

“In September, America’s Plastic Makers® along with the International Council of Chemical Associations and World Plastics Council announced 5 Principles to eliminate plastic waste, accelerate a circular economy, and serve as the basis for a global agreement. They are:

  1. Have all nations agree on eliminating plastic waste, while providing flexibility and support to help meet the needs of individual nations.
  2. Achieve widespread access to waste collection.
  3. Recognize the role plastics play in a lower carbon future.
  4. Support innovation in product design and recycling technology.
  5. Measure progress.

“Plastic makers and our partners throughout the global plastics supply chain strongly encourage an agreement that incorporates these five principles. We look forward to working with U.S. leadership, UNEA, and the international community to end plastic waste.”

American Chemistry Council

The American Chemistry Council’s mission is to advocate for the people, policy, and products of chemistry that make the United States the global leader in innovation and manufacturing. To achieve this, we: Champion science-based policy solutions across all levels of government; Drive continuous performance improvement to protect employees and communities through Responsible Care®; Foster the development of sustainability practices throughout ACC member companies; and Communicate authentically with communities about challenges and solutions for a safer, healthier and more sustainable way of life. Our vision is a world made better by chemistry, where people live happier, healthier, and more prosperous lives, safely and sustainably—for generations to come.