Materials and Publications

Fact Sheet: Plastics 101

This fact sheet is intended to support fully informed global plastics treaty negotiations by clarifying the terminology used to describe plastics as “polymers” or “materials” and not plastics as “products”. In other words, this fact sheet explains plastics as the material that is produced and later manufactured into, for example, drink bottles, or takeaway containers.

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Latest Posts

1
Reliable science to inform discussions at the Heads of Delegation (HODs) meetings

This short document provides an overview of useful scientific resources for each of the four clusters and other discussion topics planned by the Chair for the upcoming HoDs meetings. Download the document: In English here In French here In Spanish here

2
Key sources of microplastics to the environment: Paint (2026)

This document is part of a series on key sources of micro- and nanoplastics to the environment. It was originally published in 2024, and has been updated and republished in 2026. Download the document: Paint – A key source of microplastics to the environment (EN)

3
Key sources of microplastics to the environment: Microfibres from textiles (2026)

This document is part of a series on key sources of micro- and nanoplastics to the environment. It was originally published in 2024, and has been updated and republished in 2026. Download the document: Microfibres from textiles: Fate, effects, and mitigation strategies (EN)

4
Key sources of microplastics to the environment: Intentionally added plastics in personal care products (2026)

This document is part of a series on key sources of micro- and nanoplastics to the environment. It was originally published in 2024, and has been updated and republished in 2026. Download the document: Intentionally added plastics in personal care products (EN)

5
Key sources of microplastics to the environment: Plastic pellets, powders, and flakes (2026)

This document is part of a series on key sources of micro- and nanoplastics to the environment. It was originally published in 2024, and has been updated and republished in 2026. Download the document: Plastic pellets, powders, and flakes – a key source of microplastics to the environment (EN)