UNITED NATIONS, By Nishat Mirza – At CSW69, Thursday March 13, 2025, powerhouse women took the stage to tackle one of the planet’s biggest environmental challenges—plastic pollution. Organized by the Turkish Journal, UN Environment Programme (UNEP), and UN Civil Society, the event “Highlighting Women’s Action in Plastic Pollution” showcased how women across the world are leading the charge against plastic waste, from pushing policy reforms to developing groundbreaking solutions.
Women aren’t just part of the fight against plastic pollution—they’re leading it. From inventing biodegradable alternatives to championing laws that cut down on plastic use, women are at the forefront of change. This event brought together influential figures from UN organizations, government, media, and advocacy groups to share their stories and solutions.
On discussing the realities of plastic pollution, speakers highlighted how women, particularly in the Global South, face the harshest impacts—struggling with access to clean water and safe food due to plastic-contaminated environments. The message was clear: women must be at the center of the solution, shaping policies and actions that reflect their lived experiences.
This year’s CSW69 theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”, is a rallying cry for change. It’s about breaking down barriers, ensuring equal opportunities, and building a future where every woman and girl has the power to create impact—especially in the fight for a cleaner, healthier planet.
One of the most powerful takeaways from the event is, Representation matters. Women need seats at the decision-making table, from grassroots to government offices, ensuring plastic pollution policies prioritize both environmental and social justice. The push for a legally binding global treaty on plastic pollution is one example of how women’s leadership is making a difference on the world stage.
Media and advocacy play a huge role in this movement. Women in journalism are uncovering the harsh truths of plastic pollution, and NGOs are making sure grassroots voices are heard in high-level negotiations. The momentum is building, and the message is reaching global audiences.
Real-world changemakers shared their inspiring work. Kyesha Ruffin, a New York City high school teacher and founder of Science in the City, is bringing climate education into classrooms, ensuring young people understand plastic pollution and take action from an early age. “When students know the impact, they become part of the solution,” she shared.
Rabeb Aloui, Representative of the Women’s Major Group to UNEP, emphasized why this issue hits home for women. “When plastics pollute water sources, women are affected first—clean water becomes scarce, and food security is at risk. That’s why we must take action.”
The fight against plastic pollution isn’t just an environmental movement—it’s a women’s movement. Governments, corporations, and communities must unite to cut plastic use, invest in sustainable alternatives, and support women-led initiatives driving real change.
As the world pushes for a feminist future of equality and sustainability, one thing is certain—women’s leadership in environmental action is unstoppable. The movement is growing, and there’s no turning back.
