On 30 March, we celebrated the second International Day of Zero Waste.
Waste pollution disrupts ecosystems, threatens well-being and hinders economic growth. Humanity generates between 2.1 billion and 2.3 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste a year, of which only 61–62 per cent is managed in controlled facilities. Some 2.7 billion people lack access to solid waste collection.
This International Day is the day to raise awareness regarding zero-waste initiatives at national, subnational, regional, and local levels, emphasizing their role in contributing to tackling the triple planetary crisis. The resolution was presented by Türkyie, along with 105 other countries and it was adopted in December 2022 by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The second annual Zero Waste Day focused on bolstering waste management and promoting sustainable production and consumption at all levels.
Online Event "Zero Waste Future"
UNEP’s International Environment 
Technology Centre and the Caribbean Sub-Regional Office (CSRO), and Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP (CYMG) co-organized an online event "Zero Waste Futures: Youth Leadership and Solutions from the Asia Pacific to the Caribbean" targeting stakeholders across regions and oceans, especially youth and experts to promote the global shift towards zero waste.
Throughout the event, attendees delved deep into the intricate landscape of global waste management, gaining valuable insights into innovative initiatives and strategies driving positive change. From exploring impactful projects to discussing practical steps towards achieving a circular economy, the seminar provided a platform for collaboration and collective action. Ultimately, the seminar served as a catalyst for igniting a worldwide movement towards zero waste, highlighting the importance of cooperation and shared responsibility in shaping a zero waste society.
(The recording is available from here)
Interactive page "Waste Pollution 101"
A new interactive page was introduced on the Zero Waste Day. Through engaging multimedia elements such as videos, images, and infographics, the page provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges posed by various forms of waste pollution, including plastic, electronic, and industrial waste. It highlights the environmental and health impacts of waste pollution and explores potential solutions to mitigate its effects.
Visit the page to learn more about waste pollution!
- Log in to post comments
