Two-thirds of micro-sized, small and medium businesses (MSMEs) would welcome stronger policies to combat plastic pollution, new research shows.
The survey, carried out by WWF and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, comprised of more than 130 small businesses across the world.
The businesses were questioned whether they would support the introduction of a UN-backed global treaty to combat plastic pollution.
It is planned that the treaty – which will cover all stages of the plastic life-cycle, from production to waste management – will be finalised by the end of this year.
“MSMEs represent 90% of businesses across the planet and are essential to the successful implementation of the treaty,” said Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s global treaty manager Marta Longhurst.
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“”Global rules can unlock significant benefits and opportunities for MSMEs if implemented effectively and fairly.
“This study shows strong support for the global rules in the treaty from MSMEs and highlights the crucial steps needed to support them through the process to end plastic pollution, benefiting businesses across the entire plastics value chain.”
The research shows that 63% of those surveyed viewed the treaty positively while 37% were neutral. It also showed that the majority of MSMEs (75%) were aware of the treaty.
Perceived benefits from the treaty include job creation in alternative materials, reuse and recycling, the survey showed.
Earlier this month, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation said a comprehensive circular economy approach, extended producer responsibility (EPR) rules, and separate textile collections were key to helping meet the challenge of clothing waste.
