Geneva, Switzerland (Enmaeya News) — Last month, as global plastics treaty negotiations entered their final phase, more than 80 countries expressed support for a joint proposal by Switzerland and Mexico to regulate hazardous plastic chemicals.

The proposal aims to protect human health and the environment by creating a legally binding framework to control toxic substances throughout the lifecycle of plastics.

IPEN, a network focused on toxic chemicals, said the move reflects growing momentum toward a strong treaty but warned that progress remains slow due to what it described as “disruptive tactics” by some oil-producing countries.

The proposal includes Article 3, which would establish a list of hazardous plastic chemicals, ensure transparency and traceability in products, and require legally binding commitments from member states.

IPEN also called for the treaty to address plastic threats at every stage of its lifecycle, not just in finished products. The network expressed concern that key stakeholders—including scientists, indigenous communities, and waste workers, have been excluded from some negotiations, reducing transparency and accountability.

The network pledged to monitor and hold negotiators accountable to ensure the treaty prioritizes human health and environmental protection.