While often overlooked in debates about how to reach climate goals, solid waste management can hugely contribute; if waste is mismanaged, the whole sector becomes a net-emitter of greenhouse gas emissions. However, if properly managed and the first steps are taken towards a circular economy, the sector can hugely help mitigate emissions from cities. This holds also true for COVID-19: while the world focuses on washing hands, solid waste collection and treatment needs to continue in a safe way to avoid the spread of other diseases and ensure proper disposal of increased amounts of medical waste and potentially infectious waste from municipal solid waste stream.
This event will highlight how partnerships can harness opportunities to:
– Respond climate emergencies effectively in COVID-19 situation;
– Maintain or even expand MSWM service delivery in crisis situation and
– Build back better for climate resilience