Since the 1950s, 9.2 billion tonnes of plastic have been produced, seven billion tonnes of which have become potentially toxic waste. If no action is taken, plastic pollution could triple by 2060. 

It’s in our oceans, our rivers and overall plastic pollution represents “a huge problem” says Jyoti Mathur-Filipp, Executive Secretary of the international negotiating committee secretariat (INC) focused on curbing the scourge, which met earlier this week on the road to what it is hoped will be an historic treaty next year.

Following the latest round of talks in Ottawa, Canada, “we are exactly where we need to be,” Ms. Mathur-Filipp told UN News’ Anton Uspensky, reflecting on the latest negotiations, and important steps that lie ahead.