In March 2022, the governments of 175 countries committed to develop a new global agreement to end plastic pollution, covering the full lifecycle of plastic from extraction of oil and gas for plastic production through to design, use and management of plastic waste. Governments have committed to delivering the agreed treaty text by the end of 2024. This study analyzes quantitative survey data to understand public opinion on a range of proposed global rules to regulate plastic production, consumption and management, which could be included in the UN treaty.
Latest Ipsos poll on what should be in a soon-to-be concluded global plastic pollution treaty shows unequivocal public support for banning harmful and unnecessary plastic products worldwide, with as high as 85% calling for a ban on single-use plastics and 90% for a ban on hazardous chemicals used in plastics. Such bans can provide a pathway for reducing global plastic production, which 87% of the over 24,000 people polled in 32 countries support.
The results paint a picture of consistent and unwavering calls from citizens across all regions for strong and legally-binding global rules that can cut plastic pollution by prioritising measures that ban harmful, avoidable plastics and which ensure the plastics we do use can be safely reused and recycled.