Negotiations at the United Nations in Geneva involving representatives from nearly 180 countries are underway to finalize the first-ever legally binding global treaty aimed at reducing plastic pollution. The talks, now in their sixth and likely final round, seek to address the growing environmental and health threats posed by plastic waste. A recent study published in The Lancet has highlighted plastic pollution as a “grave, growing and under-recognized danger” to both human health and the planet. Despite broad participation, deep divisions persist among nations, particularly between oil-producing countries, including the United States, and other parties. The U.S. and several petro-states oppose proposed caps on plastic production, while the European Union and island nations advocate for limits. A memo from the Trump administration has urged countries to reject any treaty provisions that would cap plastic production, reflecting ongoing resistance. The current draft treaty contains over 370 unresolved issues, complicating progress. Environmental groups have called for stronger commitments and warned against compromises that could undermine the treaty’s effectiveness. The World Health Organization has emphasized the importance of centering health in the negotiations. Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about the increased presence of fossil fuel industry representatives at the talks, as petrochemical-derived plastics contribute more CO2 emissions than aviation. Additionally, alarming levels of microplastics have been detected in bottled waters such as Contrex and Hépar in France, raising further public health concerns. The negotiations chair has warned that progress remains insufficient at the midway point, with the treaty talks facing diplomatic and industrial lobbying challenges. The outcome of these discussions will be critical in shaping global efforts to tackle plastic pollution and its associated risks.