Health Aspects Of The Proposed Treaty To End Plastic Pollution
World Health Organization (WHO)
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Abstract: This document presents multi-stakeholder dialogues on the health dimensions of the global treaty to end plastic pollution. Key interventions discuss microplastics, toxic additives (e.g., PFAS, BPA), and the health burden of single-use medical plastics. WHO's position emphasizes lifecycle analysis, toxic substance labeling, and public health safeguards under treaty implementation. Commentaries from Switzerland, Ethiopia, UNEP, and civil society groups argue for alignment with global health targets and environmental justice frameworks. The treaty is seen as a vehicle for phasing out hazardous plastics, transitioning health systems to safer materials, and preventing pollution-linked diseases. The meeting underscores the need for health ministries? involvement and cautions against blanket sectoral exemptions, positioning public health at the center of plastics governance.