Interdisciplinary Expert Seminar – Unpacking the worldwide plastics treaty – Occasions

Provisional Program

_{Interdisciplinary Expert Seminar on 28 Oct: 10.00-17.30 CET, at Maastricht University} 

We will convey a bunch of worldwide consultants for an interdisciplinary knowledgeable assembly to guage the worldwide plastics treaty in gentle of the target to finish plastic air pollution, as outlined in UNEA Resolution 5/14. Our purpose is to deliver collectively professionals from numerous fields (authorized, pure, and political sciences). Through this assembly, we intention to foster the additional growth of an interdisciplinary analysis group in Europe centred across the international plastics treaty and the implementation thereof; and to establish areas for future analysis and collaboration.

This closed-door assembly will give attention to three major subjects: ambition, course of, and linkages. Each subject will probably be mentioned in consecutive classes, aiming for an interdisciplinary change. 

1. Ambition [10-12.00 CET or 11-13.00 CET] 

The first session examines the ambition of the worldwide plastics treaty, significantly when it comes to its substantive obligations (so-called management measures) and its provisions on financing for creating nations. The session goals to conduct a rigorous authorized evaluation of the related provisions, and to make a scientific analysis of their strengths and weaknesses.  We, thereto, additionally intention to establish the place of various stakeholders (nations, civil society, and business) on the related (draft) provisions. 

2. Process [14.00-15.30 CET]

The second session analyzes process-related facets of the worldwide plastics treaty.  We will first talk about the procedural facets of the worldwide plastics treaty negotiations, together with decision-making and stakeholder involvement, reminiscent of scientists. Next, we’ll look ahead and discover the method and prospects of ratification, in addition to alternatives to extend ambition by decision-making by the Conference of the Parties (COP) below the treaty. In doing so, we’ll establish the position of science in implementing and creating the treaty over time. Additionally, we’ll examine this course of in opposition to different Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) and contemplate classes discovered.

3. Linkages [16.00-17.30 CET]

In the third and closing session, we’ll delve into the interplay between the worldwide plastics treaty and different related MEAs in addition to WTO regulation (horizontal linkages). This contains exploring complementarities and assessing potential dangers of conflicts or divergence.  Additionally, we’ll look at the interaction between the worldwide plastics treaty and EU guidelines and insurance policies on plastic merchandise and air pollution (vertical linkages). This session will cowl the implications of the worldwide plastics treaty for EU nations and stakeholders, in addition to the implications of extra formidable EU guidelines for the EU’s buying and selling companions.

Call for expressions of curiosity 

If you have an interest in taking part within the in-person Interdisciplinary Expert Seminar at Maastricht University (the Netherlands) on 28 October 2025, please ship an electronic mail to Professor Dominic Coppens: [email protected].

The choice of individuals goals to make sure a balanced illustration of experience and background. We might cowl lodging prices (1 or 2 nights), lunch and dinner; and journey prices in Europe, if essential. We look ahead to receiving expressions of curiosity.
 

About the organizers

The occasion is supported by Maastricht University’s sustainability analysis program (Sustainable UM 2030), which goals to foster interdisciplinary sustainability analysis on the University and with exterior companions.  The occasion is co-organized by: