Environmental groups have strongly criticized the presence of petrochemical and fossil fuel industry lobbyists at ongoing UN negotiations aimed at drafting a global treaty to combat plastic pollution. The groups accused the lobbyists of obstructing progress and spreading misinformation, claiming their participation poses a "direct conflict of interest."

Delphine Levi Alvares, global petrochemical campaign coordinator at the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL), expressed concern over the industry's involvement. “Their interests conflict with the objective of the mandate, and their presence here challenges independent science,” Alvares said.

The talks, involving nearly 200 countries, aim to address the full lifecycle of plastics, including sustainable production and consumption, as outlined in the resolution that initiated the discussions. Many countries and environmental organizations view the mandate as a call to limit new plastic production, putting the treaty's goals at odds with the fossil fuel and petrochemical industries, which rely on plastic production as a significant revenue source.

CIEL’s analysis of the UN participant list revealed over 200 lobbyists from the fossil fuel and chemical industries registered for the talks. Alvares accused these delegates of using tactics such as "obstruction, distraction, intimidation, and misinformation" to derail progress.

The International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA), however, disputed the claims, stating that there were 135 industry representatives at the talks. Matthew Kastner, director of media relations for the American Chemistry Council, an ICCA member, defended the presence of industry delegates. “We are far outnumbered by observers from NGOs,” Kastner said, adding, “Our delegation is here to listen to governments and offer the deep technical expertise our industries have that can help end plastic pollution.”

Environmental groups countered that the influence of well-funded industry organizations undermines efforts toward an ambitious treaty. “NGOs represent public interests, while these industries represent private interests,” Alvares said.

Critics also highlighted that industry representatives often join country delegations, particularly those accused of blocking progress at the talks. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has faced calls to restrict such participation but lacks the authority to intervene. UNEP chief Inger Andersen told AFP earlier this week, “We do not have the ability to tell member states who they put on their delegations.”

The negotiations in South Korea represent a critical juncture in global efforts to combat plastic pollution, with environmental groups urging governments to prioritize public and environmental interests over corporate influence.