Every day, millions of people use plastic packaging. They drink coffee through plastic lids and throw everything away. Starting in 2026, a new global agreement wants to change this.
The United Nations made an agreement called the Global Plastics Treaty. More than 175 countries joined the talks. The treaty covers plastic from the moment it is made to the moment it is thrown away.
The problem is very big. Every year, about 8 to 11 million tons of plastic enter the world's oceans. Single-use plastics make up about 36 percent of all plastic produced. These include straws, food containers, and shopping bags.
Under the treaty, countries must reduce plastic waste at every stage. They need to limit how much plastic is made. Each country must set targets, report progress, and improve recycling.
The treaty also needs changes in product design. Companies may need to make packaging easier to recycle. Many places have already banned plastic straws and shopping bags.
South Korea started its own plastic rules in 2022. Cafes stopped giving free plastic cups and shops stopped giving free plastic bags. However, Korea still has problems because many products are still wrapped in plastic.
Other countries show what works. East Africa banned plastic bags and saw cleaner streets and rivers. European countries use deposit-return systems, where people get money back when they return empty plastic bottles.
Small choices also matter. Using a reusable bottle and choosing less packaging helps. Earth Day on April 22, 2026 will be an important moment. Governments and organizations will show their plans to fight plastic pollution and build a cleaner future.