Scaling Up Solutions for a Plastic-Free Mediterranean at UNOC3

Side event in the Blue Zone – 10 June 2025

As global negotiations for a binding Global Plastics Treaty continue, the Mediterranean Sea—one of the most vulnerable marine regions—remains at the forefront of the plastic pollution crisis. At the third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), a high-level side event titled “Scaling Up Solutions for a Plastic-Free Mediterranean” spotlighted the region’s pivotal role in driving global change.

The event convened ministers, scientists, and international leaders to present bold, collaborative strategies for a cleaner, more resilient Mediterranean. Keynote speakers included Agnès Pannier-Runacher (France’s Minister for Ecological Transition), Yasmine Fouad (Egypt’s Minister of the Environment), and Elisabetta Balzi (European Commission, DG for Research and Innovation). They were joined by renowned experts such as Dr. Michael Scoullos (University of Athens), Dr. François Galgani (IFREMER Special Adviser), and Sylvain Waserman (CEO, ADEME).

A central focus of the discussion was the EU Mission Ocean and Waters, with particular emphasis on the BlueMissionMed initiative. Speakers highlighted its comprehensive portfolio of solutions—from circular economy models and marine biodiversity protection to advanced monitoring systems and community engagement tools—designed to accelerate the transition to a pollution-free Mediterranean.

The Mediterranean was presented not only as a region in urgent need of action but also as a living laboratory for scalable, science-based solutions that can inform global efforts.

The message from UNOC3 was clear: the tools to combat plastic pollution already exist—what’s needed now is unified, decisive action.