THE failure of global leaders to agree on a plastics treaty during negotiations in December has drawn sharp criticism from Surfrider Surf Coast branch secretary Darren Noyes-Brown.<\/p>\n
The talks in Busan, South Korea, marked the fifth round of negotiations aimed at creating the world’s first legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution.<\/p>\n
Despite high expectations, no agreement was reached, leaving environmental advocates frustrated and determined to push harder.<\/p>\n
Mr Noyes-Brown said the stalled negotiations highlighted the persistent issue of plastic pollution on the Surf Coast and beyond.<\/p>\n
“It’s disheartening to see the continued production of non-biodegradable plastic packaging by food and beverage companies,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Despite numerous campaigns encouraging people to dispose of litter properly, we still find significant amounts of rubbish on our beaches.”<\/p>\n
He criticised the influence of industry lobbyists during the talks, saying they held far more sway than community and environmental organisations.<\/p>\n
“Lobbyists seem to control what happens, while community members like us struggle to have our voices heard.”<\/p>\n
For Mr Noyes-Brown, the fight is not only on the beaches but also at the ballot box.<\/p>\n
“We will be urging people to vote for the coast in the upcoming federal election,” he said.<\/p>\n
Corangamite Labor federal member Libby Coker said she was proud to be part of a government committed to protecting the region’s unique environment.<\/p>\n
“I’m continuing to advocate for the outcomes we need to address the complex challenge posed by plastics in our oceans and waterways.<\/p>\n
“We know plastic pollution is a global problem and it’s going to require global solutions.<\/p>\n
“Without global action, the presence of plastic waste will continue to escalate and impact our natural environment.”<\/p>\n
Ms Coker said the Albanese Government would continue to push for an ambitious treaty that restricts the production of new plastic.<\/p>\n
Environmental groups now hope for stronger commitments when negotiations resume in 2025.<\/p>\n
Advocates are calling for measures that hold producers accountable for plastic pollution, rather than placing the burden on individuals and recycling efforts.<\/p>\n
Mr Noyes-Brown supports this push, urging companies to adopt biodegradable materials and plastic alternatives.<\/p>\n
“There are much better ways of doing things,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Technology exists to create plastic replacements, but it’s not being widely adopted.”<\/p>\n
In the meantime, he encouraged people to act locally to make a difference.<\/p>\n
“People can get involved with Surfrider by finding us on Facebook or through the Surfrider Australia website,” he said.<\/p>\n
“We have events planned for the new year, including clean-ups and awareness campaigns, and we welcome community participation.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE failure of global leaders to agree on a plastics treaty during negotiations in December has drawn sharp criticism from Surfrider Surf Coast branch secretary Darren Noyes-Brown. The talks in Busan, South Korea, marked the fifth round of negotiations aimed at creating the world’s first legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution. Despite high expectations, […]<\/p>\n