Nordic Programme to Reduce Plastic Pollution

Photographer

Mads Schmidt Rasmussen / norden.org

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues affecting both the environment and human health. Without new and effective control measures, plastic production is projected to double within the next 20 years. However, with concerted and unified global actions, plastic pollution can be ended by 2040.

The Nordic Programme to Reduce Plastic Pollution enables the Nordic countries to collaborate in generating high-quality and valuable knowledge on plastic pollution. It also acts as a catalyst for exchanging experiences and developing effective and ambitious measures to combat plastic pollution at national, regional, and international levels. The programme will promote joint Nordic priorities and experiences in the efforts to prevent and reduce plastic pollution, including microplastics, through the promotion of sustainable consumption of plastics taking into account a life cycle approach.

The Nordic countries have been at the forefront of fighting plastic pollution, advocating for an ambitious international agreement to tackle this issue. Together, the Nordic countries have produced influential reports and policy recommendations, providing a robust knowledge base for ongoing negotiations. The Nordic Programme to Reduce Plastic Pollution sustains this momentum in the continuing negotiations.

Latest updates and contact information

Focus Areas

- Promoting sustainable production and consumption of plastics.

- Developing policy reports, proposals, guidelines, and similar resources for plastic product design to foster a circular value chain for plastics.

- Targeting emissions and the release of plastics, including microplastics.

- Addressing plastic waste and existing plastic pollution.

The programme advocates for joint Nordic priorities and experiences by promoting sustainable plastic consumption through a life cycle approach, while safeguarding Nordic political positions and interests.