Context
With a population of over 680 million, ASEAN is one of the world's fastest-growing economic regions. However, population growth combined with increased tourism are putting immense pressure on waste management systems.
In many parts of the region, inadequate waste management infrastructure results in improperly treated waste, which then enters the environment. This in turn increases marine litter, poses a threat to coastal ecosystems, and reduces the attractiveness of the region as a tourist destination.
Objective
An environmentally friendly circular economy that promotes waste reuse helps prevent marine litter in the ASEAN region.
Approach
The project builds on the lessons learned and knowledge products derived from the previous initiatives – 3RproMar I and ASEAN Municipal Solid Waste Management (AMUSE).
At regional level, the project strengthens ASEAN's role as a collaborative platform linking administration, business and civil society. It provides technical advice for ASEAN working groups and integrates stronger private sector engagement in policy-making.
At national level, it supports governments in the further development of legislation related to circular economy. Through dialogues, it works with businesses and research institutions to create incentives and provide support for waste management and the circular economy, e.g. through deposit systems and extended producer responsibility.
In the provinces, cities and municipalities, the project enables companies to implement jointly developed sustainable business plans for waste and recycling management. To this end, it offers training courses, for example. The project also plans to raise public awareness to ensure that the circular economy enjoys widespread acceptance and support.
The project consistently promotes environmental and resource protection, good democratic governance, gender equity, digitalisation and biodiversity conservation.
Last update: June 2025
