UNHRC Resolution Links Plastic Pollution and Environmental Rights

• 07 Apr 2025

On 4th April, 2025, the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) adopted a landmark resolution acknowledging the connection between plastic pollution, ocean protection and the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

Key Points

• Historic First: This is the first UN resolution to directly link plastic pollution with the human right to a healthy environment.
• Human Rights at the Core: It affirms that plastic pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss threaten ocean health and human dignity.
• Focus on Vulnerable Communities: Coastal areas and small island states face the greatest harm, requiring inclusive and participatory solutions.
• Precursor to Global Talks: The resolution sets the stage for the June 2025 UN Ocean Conference and August 2025 plastic treaty negotiations.
• Precautionary Principle: Calls on states to prevent further marine degradation through precautionary, rights-based governance.
• Plastic Lifecycle Accountability: Urges coordinated global action across plastic production, use, and disposal.