# Guatemala


## Challenges and Opportunities

Every year, Guatemala faces a growing challenge with plastic waste, much of which ends up polluting its rivers and ecosystems. The Motagua River, the longest in Guatemala, along with its tributary, Río Las Vacas, has become a hotspot for plastic pollution, affecting biodiversity, local livelihoods, and downstream communities across the region. Improper waste management and illegal dumping lead to plastic debris flowing into the Caribbean Sea, threatening marine life and coastal economies dependent on tourism and fishing. Open burning of plastic waste further exacerbates air pollution and poses risks to public health.


## Guatemala joins the Global Plastic Action Partnership

In January 2025, Guatemala became a member of GPAP, underscoring its strong commitment to tackling plastic pollution through policy reform, regional cooperation, and public-private collaboration.


## Launch of the National Plastic Action Partnership

Led by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN), the National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP) Guatemala drives the development and implementation of targeted, data-driven solutions tailored to the country's specific context. In July 2025, MARN, in collaboration with GPAP and IUCN, officially launched NPAP Guatemala.By uniting government, the private sector, civil society, and local communities, the NPAP coordinates national efforts to reduce plastic pollution, promotes sustainable practices and advances the transition to a circular economy for plastics.


### Let's Connect

Do you work for a government, business, intergovernmental organization, or civil society? Join forces with GPAP to fast-track our collective progress towards a world free of plastic waste and pollution.

[Contact us](mailto:plasticaction@weforum.org)


## Cross-Sector Support


*Partner organizations and sponsors*


*Partner organizations and sponsors*


*Partner organizations and sponsors*