Date: Wednesday, 20 May 2026
Time: 11:00 - 12:30 (UTC+4, Baku time)
Location: Azerbaijani Pavilion, Urban Expo - WUF13, Baku, Azerbaijan
WUF13 Azerbaijani Pavilion Event | Hosted by the Republic of Azerbaijan (Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources)
About the Event
Plastic pollution has become one of the most visible and persistent challenges undermining urban livability, environmental quality, and public health worldwide. Cities are at the frontline of this challenge — generating the majority of plastic waste while simultaneously bearing the social, economic, and environmental costs of inadequate waste management systems. Rapid urbanisation, consumption-driven lifestyles, and insufficient circular infrastructure have intensified plastic leakage into land, waterways, and marine environments.
This side event, organised in the framework of WUF13 by the Republic of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, aims to foster dialogue on integrated, city-level solutions to plastic pollution that support liveable urban environments and accelerate the transition towards a circular economy. Drawing on national experiences, municipal practices, and international cooperation, the event will explore how cities can embed circular economy principles into urban planning, waste management, and service delivery. Zero-waste approaches offer cities a practical pathway to prevent plastic pollution at source by reducing waste generation, promoting reuse, and strengthening circular resource flows.
The event will also contribute to ongoing global efforts on plastic pollution reduction — including the ongoing negotiations toward a new Global Plastics Treaty — demonstrating how urban action can complement national and international commitments. UNEP will contribute the global environmental perspective and link the discussion to the New Urban Agenda and SDG 12 on responsible consumption and production. Particular attention will be given to inclusive approaches engaging local communities, youth, and the private sector.
If you have any questions or would like more information about the event, please contact cecilia.consalvo@un.org.
