The EU supports "the facts and evidence" at the first global panel on pollution, defying the US withdrawal from multilateralism.

Geneva, February 3, 2026 – "In a move aimed at signaling stability in 'turbulent times for global cooperation', the European Union reaffirmed its commitment to science-based multilateralism at the inaugural plenary of the Intergovernmental Scientific-Political Panel on Chemical Substances, Waste and Pollution (ISP-CWP). Meeting in Geneva this week, the panel aims to become the definitive authority on pollution, filling a long-standing gap in international environmental governance.

In brief

The first plenary of the ISP-CWP is taking place in Geneva to operationalize the new independent scientific body on chemical substances and waste. Commissioner Jessika Roswall emphasized that effective solutions require common evidence and transparency, contrasting the EU's approach with recent U.S. withdrawals from international treaties. The new panel joins the IPCC (climate) and IPBES (biodiversity) to complete the quartet of global scientific and environmental policy bodies.

The establishment of the ISP-CWP is considered the final piece of the puzzle for global environmental policy. It joins the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the Platform on Biodiversity (IPBES), and the International Resource Panel (IRP) to create a comprehensive scientific support system for decision-makers.

The panel's mission is to provide authoritative assessments of the entire life cycle of chemical substances and materials, addressing their impact on health, ecosystems, and climate resilience. These assessments are expected to be crucial for ongoing negotiations, such as the Global Plastics Treaty.

The EU's vocal support stands in stark contrast to the recent shift in U.S. policy. On January 7, 2026, U.S. President Trump announced the withdrawal of the United States from various international organizations and agreements, including IPBES and IPCC.

"In turbulent times for global cooperation, the EU chooses continuity, credibility, and science," said Jessika Roswall, the Commissioner for the Environment. "Pollution, hazardous chemicals, and waste do not stop at borders. The EU remains firmly committed to strengthening science-based global solutions."

At the same time, the EU is participating in the 12th Plenary of IPBES in Manchester, UK, further highlighting its strategy to position itself as the main defender of scientific integrity in global policy-making.