“The Art of Activism: Greenpeace Installs Monumental Piece to Promote Global Plastic Treaty”

Greenpeace Unveils Art Installation to Raise Awareness of Plastic Pollution Ahead of Global Plastic Treaty Talks

Greenpeace International, in partnership with artist Benjamin Von Wong and actor Shailene Woodley, has revealed a five-metre tall art installation titled #PerpetualPlastic Machine on the banks of the Seine River in Paris. The installation aims to send a message to negotiators participating in the second Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee meeting of the Global Plastics Treaty that increasing plastic production and use must be stopped. The installation includes a representation of a giant oil rig powering an endless plastic supply chain, highlighting how most plastics are made from fossil fuels and pollute throughout their lifecycle.

The Devastating Effects of Plastic Pollution and Increasing Production

Plastic pollution is a widespread problem that harms the environment, public health, and exacerbates social injustice. The Global Plastics Treaty must be strong enough to ensure a safer environment for present and future generations. Global production of plastics continues to increase, and without action, industry estimates suggest it could double by 2030-2035 and triple by 2050.

The Symbolism of #PerpetualPlastic Machine

Through the #PerpetualPlastic Machine, artist and activist Benjamin Von Wong aimed to highlight the connection between the fossil fuel industry and corporations that manufacture single-use plastics. “Both industries are responsible for devastating our planet, while putting the blame on consumers,” he said. The installation will serve as a powerful reminder to people that it is essential to have a strong and ambitious global treaty to mitigate plastic pollution.

The Importance of a Strong Global Plastics Treaty

Over a thousand delegates, including ministers from various governments around the world, have gathered in Paris to secure a legally binding treaty. The UN has set a goal for the treaty to be negotiated by the end of 2024. Greenpeace, together with allies from the Break-Free from Plastic movement, demand a treaty that will keep oil and gas in the ground and put an end to big polluters’ relentless plastic production. A strong, effective, and ambitious Global Plastics Treaty must cap and phase down plastic production, end plastic pollution, and ensure a just and inclusive transition to a low-carbon, zero-waste, toxic-free, reuse-based economy.

The Call for a Human Rights-Based Approach to the Global Plastics Treaty

Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner at Greenpeace Southeast Asia Philippines and a delegate at the negotiations, emphasizes that a strong and equitable Global Plastics Treaty will not only eliminate plastic pollution but also achieve justice for communities impacted by extraction and plastic production. According to Yvette Arellano, director of Fenceline Watch, plastic production has exacerbated the risk and exposure to petrochemicals in low-wealth communities of color, violating their human rights and reducing access to justice. The installation and negotiations highlight the importance of centering justice in the creation and implementation of the treaty.

Conclusion

The #PerpetualPlastic Machine installation is a powerful reminder that concrete actions must be taken to mitigate plastic pollution. The Global Plastics Treaty underway in Paris is a step forward in the right direction to cap and phase down plastic production and to ensure an inclusive transition to a low-carbon, zero-waste, toxic-free, reuse-based economy. Further, adopting a human rights-based approach will reduce our inequalities and prioritize human health. As individuals, we must also act to reduce our plastic use and push corporations to adopt sustainable practices.

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