January 2025 Newsletter: Taking bold action for a plastic-free future, clean air and climate progress

Salo Aburto
Date: January 13, 2025

Welcome to the first edition of Pacific Environment’s monthly e-newsletter for 2025! This is an opportunity to highlight some of our work and share victories for communities, climate and wildlife.

JUMP AHEAD
PLASTICS

Despite global mandate, no plastics treaty yet

Progress made at INC-5, but much work remains

Last November, Pacific Environment joined world leaders and advocates in Busan, Republic of Korea for the fifth round of negotiations on a Global Plastics Treaty, INC-5. Despite signs of progress — like increased support for binding production targets and bans on harmful plastics — delegates failed to finalize an agreement resulting in an extended treaty negotiation process. Critical action is delayed until the next meeting (now called INC-5.2), likely to take place this spring. Plus, Kristen McDonald, Pacific Environment’s Senior Director, Plastics Program, discusses with Heatmap how voluntary measures for businesses are likely to fail, underscoring the importance of a globally binding treaty. Check out the story here. 

We cannot afford further delays. Every minute, enough plastic to fill a garbage truck enters our oceans, wreaking havoc on marine life, human health and the climate. Pacific Environment will continue fighting for a treaty that reduces plastic production, eliminates toxic chemicals and centers equity and Indigenous rights. Together, we can turn the tide on the global plastic crisis.

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PORTS FOR PEOPLE

Demand clean air at California’s ports

Urge the South Coast Air Quality Management District to adopt a strong rule to slash emissions and prioritize community health

California’s South Coast region faces a freight pollution crisis, with emissions from ships, trucks and trains harming frontline communities and port workers. South Coast Air Quality Management District, or SCAQMD, has the power to make a difference by adopting a strong Indirect Source Rule (ISR) for marine ports. This rule could cut emissions, fast-track zero-emission infrastructure and address decades of environmental injustice.

We need bold action to safeguard public health and meet federal air quality standards — that’s why we’re launching our #StrongPortsISR campaign, which aims to ensure clean air, equitable jobs and a sustainable future. Together, we can transform our ports into models of health and prosperity.

Take action
PORTS FOR PEOPLE

Biden administration unveils Maritime Decarbonization Action Plan

A roadmap for net-zero emissions in the U.S. maritime sector

The Biden administration has released its Maritime Decarbonization Action Plan, outlining strategies to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector by 2050. While advancements like the U.S.’s first electric tugboat and hydrogen fuel cell ferry showcase progress, reducing maritime emissions remains a pressing challenge, projected to rise sharply in coming years.

Pacific Environment is calling for bold leadership to fulfill these commitments and accelerate the shift to zero-emission shipping. By taking decisive action, the U.S. can drive innovation, protect the climate and lead the global transition toward cleaner, sustainable maritime operations.

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