On 25 July 2025, ten international activists from a well-known environmental group abseiled beneath a bridge in Scotland, suspending themselves roughly 25 meters above the river, according to Marine Insight.
The protest aimed to obstruct the passage of a gas transport vessel carrying ethane gas intended for a nearby petrochemical facility. The demonstrators remained in place for nearly 24 hours.
PLASTICS TREATY NOW
The protesters unfurled six large banners displaying the message “PLASTICS TREATY NOW”, drawing attention to ongoing global negotiations for an international plastics reduction agreement. With the final round of treaty talks scheduled to take place in Geneva in early August, the timing of the action was deliberate.
Support personnel played a role in maintaining safety throughout the event. Trained rescue climbers were stationed on the bridge, while boats patrolled below to assist if needed. The activists, many of whom had undergone extensive preparation, indicated their intent to stay suspended for the full duration and appeared to use hammocks to rest if necessary.
Police Scotland responded by closing the bridge to road users around 1:05 p.m. as a precautionary measure. The public was advised to use an alternative crossing nearby. Authorities remained on site throughout the day, engaging with the individuals involved.
By the morning of 26 July, the activists voluntarily descended, assisted by support vessels to reach the nearby shore safely. Ten individuals were subsequently taken into police custody on suspicion of reckless conduct. Officials confirmed that the protesters chose to descend of their own accord and cooperation with assistance teams.
Campaign Objectives and Broader Context
Organisers stated that the protest was intended to amplify demands for a binding plastics treaty, including global production reductions by 2040 and exclusion of fossil-fuel-linked interests from future negotiations. They highlighted concerns over the low global recycling rate and rapid growth in plastic waste.
The action was reported as peaceful and planned well in advance, with safety teams in place to reduce risk. The bridge in question handles pedestrians, cyclists, and bus traffic, and its closure was attributed to safety concerns by law enforcement rather than the physical actions of the protesters.
Authorities confirmed that investigations and police engagement continue following the incident.
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Source: Marine Insight
