Group of 20 environment ministers agreed on Sunday to adopta new implementation framework for actions to tackle the issue of marineplastic waste on a global scale, the Japanese government said after hosting thetwo-day ministerial meeting, according to Reuters.
Environment and energy ministers of the Group of 20 majoreconomies met this weekend in Karuizawa, northwest of Tokyo, ahead of the G20summit in Osaka, western Japan, on June 28-29.
One of the top issues was ocean plastic waste as images ofplastic debris-strewn beaches and dead animals with stomachs full of plastichave sparked outrage, with many countries banning plastic bags outright.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has said he wants hiscountry to lead the world in reducing marine plastic trash, includingdeveloping biodegradables and other innovations.
Under the new framework, G20 members will promote acomprehensive life-cycle approach to prevent and reduce plastic litterdischarge to the oceans through various measures and international cooperation.
They will also share best practices, promote innovation andboost scientific monitoring and analytical methodologies.
