UNEA Adopts Historic Rwanda-Peru Drawn Resolution

This week the Fifth Session of the United Nations Environmental Assembly adopted a historic resolution to end plastic pollution. The resolution, which was co-authored by Rwanda and Peru, set in motion the development of an international, legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution.

In the negotiations, the Rwandan delegation - led by Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya and supported by Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority, Juliet Kabera - drew upon the country’s experiences of addressing plastic pollution and promoting investment in sustainable alternatives.

“We are delighted that the international community has adopted the Rwanda-Peru resolution to end plastic pollution. This decision is a historic milestone in the global effort to prevent our planet from drowning in plastics. We are proud of the role we have played so far, and we are optimistic about the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity nations now have to create a legally-binding framework which commits us all to a more sustainable future,” Minister Mujawamariya said.

The passing of the resolution, and eventual creation of a global treaty, will facilitate international cooperation through networks of technology and knowledge sharing, as well as on creating appropriate mechanisms for investment. This collaborative spirit will ensure the world can take full advantage of the economic opportunities created by a viable and vibrant circular economy for plastic.

More Information

• Read Minister Mujawamariya’s remarks at the closing plenary during which the resolution was adopted here

• Learn more about Rwanda’s efforts to beat plastic pollution here