Last week, Ottawa proudly hosted the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution at the award winning Shaw Centre, drawing over 4,000 attendees from 175 countries. This key event, aimed at tackling the global challenge of plastic pollution, took place from April 23 to April 29, coinciding with Earth Day celebrations.
During the week-long summit, international delegates focused on the urgent need to regulate and reduce the most harmful types of plastic, discussing strategies to decrease overall plastic production and consumption. The sessions highlighted the importance of international cooperation in fostering a transition to sustainable plastic use, with specific focus on reducing the environmental impact on marine ecosystems and improving recycling systems globally.
Lesley Pincombe, Vice President, Business & Major Events, at Ottawa Tourism, commented, "The success of this event not only underscores Ottawa's capacity to host large international meetings but also our city's commitment to global sustainability efforts. Seeing our community come together to support this cause has been truly inspiring. The influx of delegates has also provided a significant boost to our local economy, filling hotels and energising businesses throughout the city."
Nina Kressler, President and CEO of the Shaw Centre, added, "Hosting such a significant event has been an honour. The discussions held here are pivotal in shaping a sustainable future, and we were proud to provide a venue that meets the needs of such a landmark negotiation."
The summit not only provided a platform for critical negotiations but also showcased Ottawa’s ability to host major international events. The city’s hospitality industry saw marked benefits, with nearly all downtown hotels fully booked and local restaurants experiencing a steady flow of patrons.
