The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Circular Innovation Lab, a Danish think tank, have launched a collaborative initiative aimed at advancing circular economy solutions to combat plastic pollution, Anadolu Ajansı reported.  

The partnership, announced on Friday 4 October 2024, through a press release, was unveiled at an event in Istanbul, Türkiye, titled "Waste to Wealth: Rethinking Our Economic Path and Embracing Circularity."  

Supported by the Turkish government, the initiative seeks to establish a platform for learning, dialogue, and partnership, showcasing latest practices in addressing plastic waste. 

The partnership united stakeholders from diverse group including innovators, private businesses, think tanks, youth advocates and academia.  

This event focused on enhancing cross-sector partnerships in the industry and promoting the circular economy principles. 

The initiative highlighted the "urgent need for a paradigm shift" and pointed out that circular economy approaches provide a practical way forward by reducing waste, extending the materials’ lifespan, and transitioning towards renewable energy solutions.  

It was noted that such a transformation "cannot happen in isolation" and "requires the active involvement of all stakeholders." 

The news agency quoted UNDP Istanbul regional hub manager Steliana Nedera as saying: "For this transition to succeed, we need to consider the needs and challenges of all stakeholders."  

The initiative is designed to enhance partnership across the value chain and expedite the implementation of sustainable practices that not only minimise plastic waste but also create new economic opportunities. 

The press release also highlighted the critical nature of the issue, noting that plastic production across the globe currently stands at nearly 430 mega tonnes a year and by 2060, it is projected to nearly triple.