Organisations
United Nations Environment Program [ UNEP ] :
Geneva, 7 February 2026 – The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, today elected Ambassador Julio Cordano, of Chile, as the next INC Chair during the third part of the fifth session (INC-5.3).
New Chair elected to lead negotiations on global plastic pollution treaty
Research & Development
This plastic is made from milk and it vanishes in 13 weeks. Milk protein and clay team up to create a plastic-like film that vanishes in soil in just 13 weeks.
Date: February 28, 2026. Source: Flinders University

Summary:
Scientists racing to tackle plastic pollution have created a surprising new contender: a biodegradable packaging film made partly from milk protein. Researchers at Flinders University blended calcium caseinate with starch and natural nanoclay to form a thin, durable material designed to mimic everyday plastic. In soil tests, the film fully broke down in about 13 weeks, pointing to a realistic alternative for single-use food packaging.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260227071922.htm
Japanese scientists create plastic that disappears in the sea in just one hour
https://www.ecoticias.com/en/japanese-scientists-create-plastic-that-disappears-in-the-sea-in-just-one-hour/26768/
UnPlastics News
Plastic Without End: Are We Polluting the Planet for Eternity?
https://scitechdaily.com/plastic-without-end-are-we-polluting-the-planet-for-eternity
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