Trade and Plastics Management: The role of WTO towards more Circularity

With the surge in plastic usage due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenge of sustainable plastics management became even more relevant. The goal of this note is to provide information on the WTO’s contribution towards sustainable plastic management. It explains the work of the Committee on Trade and Environment and its role at the heart of the WTO. It also summarizes the discussions under the Plastics’ initiative and recalls structured discussions on trade and sustainable development. Finally, it offers some conclusions and suggestions.