Thread by @_C_Dixon

So, we're nearly done here in Paris for the second round of #PlasticsTreaty negotiations. What's the vibe check on negotiations? Uhhh, complicated question....🧵

With potential 'options' up for discussion ranging from fossil fuel subsidy reform to plastic production caps, restrictions on chemicals and proposals including restricting the plastic waste trade from developed countries, it wasn't going to be...easy
eia-international.org/report/global-…

There were lots of scenes like this as issues were tricky to solve on the plenary floor and required extended huddles to find solutions. Rules of Procedure hung up the first couple of days, meaning we didn't even talk plastic til mid-week.

More here 👇
climatechangenews.com/2023/05/31/row…

This was also against the backdrop of access issues which frustrated observers who were told last minute that access to the UNESCO building would be extremely limited, meaning critical voices would not be heard and a lot of money was wasted 💸

It was also disheartening to see that plastics producers were not restricted in their access, with significant delegations and access to influence governments and attempt to weaken controls on plastic production. Plastics are fossil fuels. Let's not forget it.

But wait, it's not all bad. Even the Pope got on board to call this bullshit! And delegations were prepared to work through the night (with snack police everywhere! 🚔🍫) to find common ground

✅And we got what we wanted - a decision for work to begin on a zero draft for the new #PlasticsTreaty and some options for intersessional work to get this process moving (🤞polymers and chemicals are part of that work). Countries worked tirelessly for this text 👏

🐟with a band of allies we also got to advance discussions on lifecycle approaches for dealing with plastic fishing gear, including how we tackle gear design and toxicity (plus other sectors to consider, looking at you agriplastics 👀)
eia-international.org/report/untangl…

We also saw many delegations calling for evidence-based decision making, including recognising traditional and indigenous knowledge, and great engagement between the @ScientistsCoa and member states on how to utilise expertise to guide policy 👩‍🔬

While access wasn't easy for all there were powerful interventions from the floor and events held by front line and indigenous communities - ensuring these critical voices got some platform to share their experience.

I didn't do any tourism, but I got to spend the week with my ridiculously cool team from @EIA_News. Snack support, gifs and mutual respect and knowledge exchange will get us through what's likely to be a tricky road ahead ✌️

Might add more, but need to eat my 100th baguette 🥖🇫🇷