Plastics industry representatives from across the world met in Dubai to review and finalise the plan, which has been adopted by more than 50 organisations so far. The declaration outlines a six-point strategy for action, and advocates close cooperation with a broad range of stakeholders to shape solutions for the marine environment.

The plan also outlines some of the 99 projects that have been undertaken across 32 countries so far to clean up marine debris, including initiatives such as Vacances Propres in France, Keep California Beautiful in the US, and Cool Seas-Bottle Champion in the UK.

Among the activities that the industry is implementing within the declaration is a partnership with the joint Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Environmental Protection (GESAMP).

Sponsored by nine organisations with marine environment responsibilities, GESAMP will conduct marine environmental assessments, undertaking in-depth studies for specific topics and identifying emerging issues. The plastics industry has committed to provide GESAMP with scientific expertise and financial support.

The British Plastics Federation has welcomed the plan, spokesperson Peter Davis said: “The global plastics industry is determined to rise up to this challenging issue and to play a key role in building new partnerships to shape solutions to the issue of marine litter.”

The activities run by the global plastics industry will be hosted and reported here

Maxine Perella

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