Environmental Protection

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Global Environmental Agreements

REPORTS - 16 day ago

 Progress in Combating Climate Change, Plastic Pollution, and Mining Hazards

South Eye | Report - Exclusive

As the world grapples with the pressing environmental crises of climate change, pollution, and resource extraction, multilateral agreements and international cooperation have emerged as crucial tools in mitigating these threats. Landmark initiatives such as the Montreal Protocol, global efforts to combat plastic pollution, and new frameworks for responsible mining are shaping a more sustainable future. While challenges persist, the momentum for change is evident, with countries, industries, and civil society working together to implement meaningful solutions.

Originally designed to protect the ozone layer, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer has had an unintended yet highly beneficial impact: it is slowing global warming. Adopted in 1987 and ratified by all UN member states, the Protocol successfully phased out nearly 99% of ozone-depleting substances (ODS), including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which were widely used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol propellants. However, the significance of this agreement extends beyond the ozone layer. Many of the substances controlled under the Protocol are potent greenhouse gases—some thousands of times more powerful than carbon dioxide in trapping heat. By eliminating these chemicals, the Montreal Protocol has prevented up to 0.5°C of global warming by 2100, according to scientific assessments. This contribution is crucial in the global fight against climate change, as every fraction of a degree matters in preventing severe weather events, rising sea levels, and ecosystem disruptions.

The 2016 Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol further strengthened its climate impact by targeting hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which were introduced as substitutes for ODS but later found to have high global warming potential. With full implementation, the amendment could prevent an additional 0.4°C of warming by the end of the century—a major step toward meeting the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global temperature rise to well below 2°C.

The Fight Against Plastic Pollution Toward a Global Treaty

While the Montreal Protocol demonstrates the success of international cooperation, another environmental crisis demands urgent action: plastic pollution. Each year, the world produces over 400 million tonnes of plastic, with a significant portion ending up in oceans, rivers, and landfills, causing severe harm to ecosystems, marine life, and human health. Without intervention, global plastic production could triple by 2060, exacerbating environmental and economic consequences.

Recognizing the need for a coordinated response, global leaders are now negotiating an international treaty to end plastic pollution. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is spearheading these discussions, emphasizing the importance of a legally binding agreement that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastics—from production and consumption to waste management and recycling.

At the World Economic Forum, UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen called for a "treaty for the ages", one that prioritizes human, planetary, and economic health. This means tackling plastic pollution at its source, promoting alternative materials, reducing single-use plastics, and ensuring responsible waste management. The treaty aims to set global standards and obligations for both governments and industries, ensuring accountability and concrete action rather than voluntary commitments.

Businesses and policymakers are now being urged to step up, investing in circular economy solutions that minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency. With strong determination from negotiators, scientists, and civil society, the world has a historic opportunity to create a cleaner, healthier planet by ending plastic pollution.

Enhancing Safety and Accountability in the Mining Sector

While progress is being made in climate action and pollution control, another urgent issue is the environmental and human cost of mining operations, particularly in relation to mine tailings—the leftover materials from mining processes that often contain hazardous substances. Catastrophic tailings dam failures have caused deadly disasters, contaminating water sources, displacing communities, and destroying ecosystems.

To address these risks, a new independent organization has been established to oversee the safety of mine tailings facilities worldwide. Its mission is to promote responsible lifecycle management of mine waste, aiming for zero harm to people and the environment through rigorous auditing and certification processes.

This initiative is particularly critical as demand for critical minerals—such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—surges due to the global energy transition. These minerals are essential for batteries, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies, but their extraction must be socially and environmentally responsible.

By implementing stronger regulations, independent monitoring, and best practices, the mining industry can minimize the risks associated with tailings and contribute to a more sustainable and ethical supply chain for the clean energy economy. Governments, investors, and industries must work together to prioritize safety, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that mining does not come at the cost of human lives and ecological integrity.

From the Montreal Protocol’s success in reducing greenhouse gases to the growing momentum for a plastic pollution treaty and increased mining safety standards, global cooperation is proving to be the key to tackling today’s environmental crises. However, challenges remain. Implementation gaps, resistance from powerful industries, and the urgency of the climate crisis require stronger commitments, better enforcement mechanisms, and increased public awareness.

Governments must not only sign agreements but also enforce them with ambitious policies and investments. Industries must transition to sustainable practices, embracing innovation and circular economy models. Civil society and activists must continue to hold decision-makers accountable and push for more aggressive action.

With time running out to mitigate climate change, prevent pollution, and secure a sustainable future, the world must act decisively. The frameworks are in place, and the solutions are available. Now, it is up to leaders, businesses, and individuals to ensure that commitments turn into real, measurable change.