In Geneva, bringing the voice of the field to plastic negotiations

The SeaCleaners participated in discussions surrounding the future global treaty on plastic pollution. Our message: act across the entire life cycle, without opposing prevention and cleanup.

Installation dedicated to plastic pollution in Geneva, during international negotiations. © AFP

By The SeaCleaners Swiss team
Published on 08.08.2025, updated on 15.08.2025

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In 08/2025, Geneva hosted a new session of United Nations negotiations dedicated to a global treaty against plastic pollution. For The SeaCleaners Swiss, a Geneva-based organisation active on the ground in Southeast Asia, this meeting was an opportunity to share a simple conviction: collection is essential, but prevention is just as vital.

From product to waste: acting at every stage

We advocate for an approach covering the entire life cycle of plastic: design, production, consumption, waste reduction, materials management, and cleanup of environments already affected. Sustainable solutions cannot rely on a single stage.

What field experience brings to the debate

In Kota Kinabalu, every Mobula 8.2 operation produces data on the waste collected: quantity, composition, and accumulation sectors. This information, combined with observations from our local partners, allows us to fuel concrete discussions with decision-makers.

Our Executive Director, Benoit de Torcy, shared this approach during media exchanges surrounding the session, notably with Le Courrier.

What's next?

The Geneva session concluded on 15.08.2025 without an agreement. We will continue to promote ambitious and applicable commitments, linking field experience to international discussions.

Sources: The SeaCleaners advocacy elements; Le Courrier, "Plastique navrant," 07.08.2025.