A recent Guardian investigation reveals major plastics and petrochemical companies have deeply infiltrated the UN plastics treaty talks. Lobbyists now outnumber scientists and national delegates at the negotiating table.

At the December 2024 session in Busan, South Korea, around 220 corporate lobbyists attended—far more than official country reps. These industry figures often entered member-only talks and sought to block binding limits on plastic production. 

This shift has skewed discussions toward recycling solutions, while caps on plastic manufacturing which many nations and scientists favor are being sidelined.

Reports of harassment and intimidation of scientists also emerged. Professor Bethanie Carney Almroth described being yelled at and filmed by industry reps during a meeting in Ottawa, while others faced surveillance and aggressive questioning. Critics warn that corporate dominance may dilute the treaty’s strength and delay urgent action.

With the next round of negotiations planned for Geneva in August 2025, over 90 countries seek strict and binding measures. Still, a powerful "petrochemical bloc" supported by oil-rich nations may continue to derail efforts.

The report raises urgent questions about fairness, transparency, and science-driven policy. As global plastic production reaches dangerous levels, there is growing concern: can real environmental protection survive under heavy corporate sway?