Ono emphasized that Japan’s geographic proximity
to the ocean makes addressing plastic pollution a national priority. He called for
a comprehensive approach covering the entire lifecycle of plastics, from
production to consumption, and stressed the need to protect rivers and oceans
from contamination.
He outlined Japan’s current status: the country
generates seven million tons of plastic waste annually, with roughly 20%
recycled and 6% used for energy production. Only about 10% of plastic waste
remains unused. Japan aims to increase recycling rates and reduce waste through
environmentally-conscious design and production processes.
Ono noted that many Japanese companies are
reviewing their production to improve recycling and reuse practices. “Our main
goal is to control plastic pollution with the active participation of all
stakeholders—producers, consumers, and industries—while ensuring regulations
are harmonized internationally,” he said.
Referring to prior Iran-Japan meetings in Tehran,
Ono expressed optimism that with flexibility and coordination, the challenging
negotiations on a global plastic pollution treaty could be successfully
concluded.
He concluded, “A treaty to combat plastic
pollution is difficult, but achievable.”