The Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty was represented at the fourth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4), held in Ottawa from 23–29 April, 2024, to advance a legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution.
The Scientists’ Coalition had 58 members on site during INC-4, bringing together a broad range of expertise. Throughout the negotiations, our scientists engaged with delegates from member states and other stakeholders, contributing scientific evidence on plastics pollution and discussing knowledge-based solutions to address this global challenge.
The Scientists’ Helpdesk for Negotiators
During the negotiations, the Scientists’ Coalition operated a digital “Scientists’ Helpdesk” for delegation members. Through the helpdesk, negotiators were able to confidentially submit questions to scientists with relevant expertise. Coalition members provided support by sharing up-to-date scientific evidence on plastics and clarifying terminology and scientific concepts.
Ask a Scientist
The Scientists’ Coalition also engaged with delegates through the in-person “Ask a Scientist” initiative, which took place daily starting on Tuesday, 23 April. This provided opportunities for direct exchange between scientists and negotiators throughout the week. Updates and highlights were shared via the Coalition’s LinkedIn and X channels.
Delegations were able to connect with the Coalition both in advance and during the negotiations to schedule meetings and engage in discussions. An overview of the scientists participating in Ottawa was made available.
Night of Science
During INC-4, the Scientists’ Coalition organized the ‘Night of Science’ event that brought together scientists, policy experts, and indigenous knowledge holders. Multiple speakers and panelists spoke about the importance of independent science for the INC process.
Our Response to the Revised Zero Draft
In preparation for INC-4, the Scientists’ Coalition developed a response to the revised zero draft text of the proposed legally binding instrument, offering science-based reflections to support the negotiations.
Background material
Prior to the negotiations, the Coalition’s expert working groups had prepared several policy briefs and fact sheets in multiple languages, which informed engagement during INC-4.