Regional Workshop on Marine Plastics Waste Management and Circular Economy in the Greater Mekong Subregion

The GMS is home to some of the world’s most productive and biodiverse aquatic ecosystems on Earth, including both freshwater and marine habitats. These ecosystems, however, are at increasing risk due to aquatic plastic pollution. Uncontrolled plastic waste, inadequate waste management systems, and unsustainable consumption patterns contribute to the degradation of aquatic environments and pose risks to human health, livelihoods, and the balance of the ecosystem.

The coastal city of Sihanoukville, Cambodia served as the backdrop for the Regional Workshop on Marine Plastics Waste Management and Circular Economy in the GMS, held on 25-26 July 2024. Building upon the outcomes of last year's policy dialogue in Vientiane, Lao PDR, the event gathered policymakers, industry experts, and community leaders across the GMS, who expressed unanimous urgency in addressing marine plastic pollution. 

One of the key topics of discussion was the vital role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems, demanding manufacturer accountability throughout the product lifecycle, a key to advancing a regional circular economy. Other topics discussed were the need for policy harmonization and stronger regional collaboration across the subregion for effective plastic waste management, as well as calls for increased investments in waste management infrastructure and enhancing waste management systems and monitoring with novel technologies such as AI. Participants also discussed the role of local, community-led initiatives and the importance of public awareness. 

The event was an important step in developing the Joint Statement on Plastic Waste Management, which was later presented and endorsed during the 6th GMS Environmental Ministers' Meeting in September. Participants showed strong commitment to mesh policies across the GMS for effective plastic waste management and circular economy advancement, setting a foundation for future cooperation and concerted regional efforts to inspire ongoing commitment towards environmental resilience in the GMS.

Source: GMS Climage Change and Environmental Sustainability Program Issue 5