Zero Waste in the Caribbean: New Ways, New Waves

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Plastic Pollution in the Caribbean: Advancing Sustainable Solutions

The third webinar of the 2025 series, hosted by UNEP and its partners to commemorate World Environment Day under the Zero Waste in the Caribbean Project on June 25, focused on addressing plastic pollution. The event showcased innovative responses and scalable solutions aimed at fostering collaboration for a more sustainable and resilient Caribbean Region. It spotlighted regional initiatives crucial for safeguarding Caribbean marine ecosystems and economic vitality against the threats posed by plastic pollution.
 

World Environment Day Highlights Zero Waste in the Caribbean

On Thursday 5^th of June, the UNEP celebrated the World Environment Day 2025, under the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution,” a crisis threatening the Caribbean’s ecosystems and marine life. Each year, millions of tonnes of plastic waste enter on Caribbean environment: through UNEP’s Zero Waste in the Caribbean Initiative, funded by the EU, we support the shift to circular economies by reducing waste, promoting sustainable innovation, and empowering communities—especially women and youth. The Zero Waste in the Caribbean Project is committed to protect nature, create green jobs, and build a resilient future by committing to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastics.

Watch the message from Mr. Vincent Sweeney, Head of UNEP Caribbean Sub-Regional Office, on World Environment Day 2025

Caribbean Leadership in Action: Showcasing Zero Waste Solutions at WCEF 2025

At the World Circular Economy Forum 2025 (WCEF 2025), held from 13 to 16 May in São Paulo, Caribbean delegates from the Zero Waste in the Caribbean initiative showcased project outcomes and forged new partnerships. Their presence underscored the region’s leadership in sustainable development. The initiative positioned the Caribbean as a key player in global circular economy efforts.

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Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles: Global Youth Webinar (LAC Region)

On Friday, April 4th, UNEP and UN-Habitat, in partnership with the Zero Waste in the Caribbean Project: New Ways, New Waves, hosted the second webinar of the series to commemorate the International Day of Zero Waste. The event, titled “Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles. Global Youth Webinar (LAC Region)”, brought together experts, industry leaders, policymakers, and youth advocates to explore sustainable solutions for waste reduction in the fashion sector. The webinar, supported by the Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP (CYMG) and the International Solid Waste Management Association Young Professional Group (ISWA YPG), focused on raising awareness of textile waste's environmental and social impacts, promoting circular economy solutions, and encouraging policy action. Participants engaged in two sessions, with one dedicated to the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region, fostering cross-regional collaboration and inspiring youth-led innovation in sustainable fashion.

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Caribbean Marks International Day of Zero Waste with Focus on Fashion and Textiles

On March 30, the UNEP Zero Waste Caribbean Project brought the Region together to commemorate the International Day of Zero Waste under the global theme "Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles." The observance highlighted the urgent need to address the growing impact of textile waste on the environment and key economic sectors such as tourism, fisheries, and agriculture. Throughout March, a joint social media campaign was carried out in collaboration with national focal points to raise awareness about the importance of reducing textile waste and promoting sustainable practices. The campaign engaged audiences across the Caribbean, amplifying the message of zero waste and inspiring collective action at all levels of society.

Watch the message from Mr. Vincent Sweeney, Head of UNEP Caribbean Sub-Regional Office, on International Day of Zero Waste 2025 here

Field Visit Highlights Waste Management Challenges and Solutions in Kingston Harbour and Riverton City Landfill

On March 14th, a field visit to Kingston Harbour and Riverton City Landfill highlighted the ongoing waste management challenges in Jamaica. Kingston Harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in the world, suffers from pollution due to plastic waste, untreated sewage, and industrial discharge. The Kingston Harbour Cleanup Project, through a multi-stakeholder partnership, is addressing these issues by removing marine litter and rehabilitating the coastal ecosystem. At Riverton City Landfill, Jamaica’s largest waste disposal site, the visit focused on challenges such as open dumping and landfill fires, along with opportunities for landfill rehabilitation and sustainable waste management practices. These efforts align with the broader goals of Zero Waste in the Caribbean, which promotes circular economy solutions and regional cooperation. As the Caribbean continues its commitment to waste management innovation, the lessons learned from the field visit will help drive progress toward a zero-waste future.

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Accelerating Action for Gender Equality and a Sustainable Caribbean

On March 8, International Women’s Day 2025, the theme "We Can Accelerate Action" called for collective solidarity to advance gender equality. Despite progress, the time to act is now, and renewed determination is needed to make equality a reality within our lifetime. The connection between climate action, waste reduction, and gender equality is key to a sustainable Caribbean. A circular economy creates environmental, economic, and social benefits, empowering women in leadership and community-driven sustainability efforts. Gender equality is essential to building an inclusive, fair future where everyone can thrive.

Watch the message from Mr. Vincent Sweeney, Head of UNEP Caribbean Sub-Regional Office, on International Women’s Day 2025 here

Driving Private Sector Engagement: Scaling Circular Economy Solutions for the Caribbean

The Caribbean region is facing significant waste management challenges, exacerbated by growing populations, limited resources, and escalating environmental concerns. The first webinar in the new series, titled “Driving Private Sector Engagement: Scaling Circular Economy Solutions for the Caribbean,” was held on 26 of February and, offered a sustainable path forward, focusing on waste reduction, recycling, and reusing materials through a circular economy approach. This webinar explored strategies to engage the private sector in waste management, incentivized circular business models, and underlined the importance of public-private partnerships in building a sustainable circular economy.

Building Resilient and Sustainable Tourism in the Caribbean

On February 17, 2025, UNEP CSRO celebrated Global Tourism Resilience Day, reflecting on the future of tourism and its role in building resilience against climate change, environmental degradation, and socio-economic instability. Tourism has long sustained Caribbean economies, but growing pressures called for a shift towards sustainability. Through the Zero Waste in the Caribbean initiative, UNEP worked to promote a circular economy, minimizing waste and conserving resources. Empowering local communities was key to embedding sustainable practices and protecting cultural and natural heritage. 

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Protecting Caribbean Wetlands: The Role of Zero Waste Solutions

On World Wetlands Day, February 2, 2025, the importance of protecting wetlands was highlighted, especially in the Caribbean, where coastal ecosystems like mangroves and seagrasses provide crucial environmental and economic benefits. However, these ecosystems are threatened by pollution, particularly from waste mismanagement. To protect these wetlands, zero waste strategies such as reducing plastic waste, promoting recycling, and encouraging organic composting are essential. By adopting these solutions and strengthening local waste management, the Caribbean can safeguard its wetlands, enhance climate resilience, and support sustainable development.

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The Synergy of Clean Energy and Zero Waste

On January 26, 2025, the International Day of Clean Energy underscored the global commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions. For the Caribbean, this day highlighted the urgency of shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy to safeguard fragile ecosystems and strengthen resilience. To ensure success, strong policies and financial support remain essential, with governments prioritizing incentives and international organizations like UNEP offering technical assistance. By embracing clean energy and zero waste, the region takes meaningful steps toward a sustainable and resilient future.

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Resilient Islands: Advancing Circular Economy in Agriculture and Tourism for a Sustainable Caribbean

The "Resilient Islands: Zero Waste and Circular Caribbean" webinar series, organized by UNEP, OECS, and partners, concluded with two impactful webinars in November and December 2024, focusing on integrating circular economy practices in agriculture and tourism. The "From Farm to Table to Soil" webinar explored circular agricultural solutions like regenerative farming and composting, while the "Circular Tourism and Public Health" webinar discussed eco-friendly tourism practices and zero-waste initiatives. Both sessions emphasized how these practices contributed to sustainability, economic resilience, and community health in the Caribbean, while fostering collaboration among governments, private sector stakeholders, and local communities to advance circular economy initiatives.

Building a Sustainable Future in the Caribbean: From Circular Solutions to Energy Recovery

17 October 2024. The ninth webinar in the "Resilient Islands: Zero Waste and Circular Caribbean" series, organized by UNEP, OECS, and partners, will focus on how circular economy models, strategic waste management practices, and waste-to-energy technologies can enhance sustainability and resilience in the Caribbean. The session will explore solutions for reducing waste, promoting recycling, and generating renewable energy, providing stakeholders with practical knowledge to implement zero-waste systems. Participants will also discuss collaboration strategies to advance circular economy policies and promote financing solutions for waste management.

8th High-Level Forum on Waste Management Concludes in Trinidad and Tobago

Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, 25 October 2024 – The 8th High-Level Forum for Caribbean Ministers and Senior Sector Officials on waste management concluded with a commitment to a Zero Waste Caribbean. The forum focused on financing circular economy solutions, regional collaboration, and private sector involvement in waste reduction. A key moment was the signing of the "Declaration of Port of Spain 2024," pledging to adopt circular economy principles and improve waste management policies. Participants also discussed the role of digital transformation and shared regional best practices.

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Regional Meeting on Financing Circular Economy Solutions Concludes in Barbados

Bridgetown, Barbados, 6 September 2024 – The Regional Meeting on Financing Circular Economy Solutions for Waste Management, held from 3-6 September, concluded today with over sixty waste-management experts from across the Caribbean. Organized under the EU-funded "Zero Waste in the Caribbean: New Ways, New Waves" initiative, the event explored financial instruments and regional challenges in waste management. Keynote speakers emphasized collaboration to develop sustainable solutions, while experts discussed financial instruments like Tipping Fees and Deposit Return Systems. The event also included over 30 bilateral meetings and site visits showcasing best practices for waste management.

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Circular Economy in Practice: Real-World Examples from the Public and Private Sectors

As part of the "Resilient Islands: Zero Waste and Circular Caribbean" webinar series, UNEP and partners hosted a session on August 21, 2024, focusing on circular economy practices in the Caribbean. Building on earlier discussions about waste reduction and extending product life, the session showcased real-world examples from national governments and private companies. It highlighted how collaboration across sectors can drive the transition to a circular economy and emphasized the importance of taking action even before all data is available.

Introduction to Circular Economy: Key Concepts and Benefits

The Caribbean engaged in a transformative discussion on the circular economy during the first webinar of the "Resilient Islands: Zero Waste and Circular Caribbean" series, held on July 17 and August 21, 2024. Organized by UNEP, the OECS, and partners, the webinar explored circular economy principles, such as waste reduction, reusing materials, and recycling. It featured the Circular Economy Coalition for Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as national roadmaps from the Netherlands and Colombia. Attendees learned about the environmental benefits, the need for a collaborative approach, and strategies to reduce resource consumption and emissions.

Celebrating World Environment Day: Art for Environmental Transformation in Kingston, Jamaica

On World Environment Day, 5th June 2024, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) launched a call for designs for a new mural in Kingston, Jamaica, under the theme "Our Land. Our Future." The initiative, organized by UNEP's Caribbean Sub-Regional Office and the Caribbean Environment Programme with support from Kingston Creative, aimed to highlight sustainable development and raise awareness about environmental issues. The event brought together representatives from various UN agencies, the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), the Caribbean Policy Research Institute (CAPRI), and the Digicel Foundation. The mural, once completed, will stand as a lasting symbol of environmental restoration and the power of collaboration, embodying the spirit of the #RestorationGeneration in the pursuit of a sustainable future.

Watch the message from Mr. Vincent Sweeney, Head of UNEP Caribbean Sub-Regional Office, on World Environment Day 2024 here 

Advancing Waste Management and Circular Economy in the Caribbean: Strategies for Nonprofit Entities

The webinar "Advancing Waste Management and Circular Economy in the Caribbean: Strategies for Nonprofit Entities" addressed the region's waste management challenges, focusing on circular economy solutions. It aimed to educate nonprofit organizations on waste reduction, resource efficiency, and sustainable practices while promoting collaboration with government, the private sector, and international organizations. Key topics included current waste practices, innovative strategies, policy frameworks, and community engagement. The event featured expert keynote speeches, panel discussions, case studies, and networking opportunities, empowering participants to lead sustainable waste management efforts, particularly in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The webinar took place on June 26, 2024.

Optimizing Municipal Waste Composting in the Caribbean: Setup and Best Practices

On May 31, 2024 the webinar in the Resilient Islands: Zero Waste and Circular Caribbean series explored sustainable solutions for municipal waste management in the Caribbean through composting. Participants gained practical insights on establishing and optimizing composting facilities to transform waste into valuable resources. The session covered the environmental, economic, and social benefits of composting, step-by-step guidance on facility setup, and strategies for efficient operations, including feedstock selection, process optimization, and odour control. The event brought together municipalities, waste management authorities, NGOs, academics, private sector stakeholders, and the general public to support the Caribbean's transition to a circular economy and a zero-waste future.

The Private Sector’s Role in Transforming Waste Management into an Engine for Economic Development

A webinar on April 30, 2024, explored how the private sector can drive innovation and economic growth through sustainable waste management practices. The event aimed to highlight successful business models, public-private partnerships, and the economic potential of waste-to-value solutions. Organized by UNEP, OECS, and CARICHAM, the session facilitated collaboration among government, private sector, and academia for integrated waste management solutions. 

Earth Day 2024

On April 22, 2024, UNEP joined the global celebration of Earth Day with a call to restore harmony with nature and embrace sustainable consumption. Mr. Vincent Sweeney, Head of UNEP’s Caribbean Sub-Regional Office, highlighted the region's commitment to fighting plastic pollution and promoting zero waste solutions as part of the EU-funded Zero Waste Project. 

Watch the message from Mr. Vincent Sweeney, Head of UNEP Caribbean Sub-Regional Office, on Earth Day 2024 here

Turning the Tide: UNEP Empowers Youth in Zero Waste Solutions Worldwide

On March 26, 2024, UNEP hosted the "Zero Waste Futures: Youth Leadership and Solutions from the Asia Pacific to the Caribbean" forum in celebration of the International Day of Zero Waste. Over 500 young participants engaged in discussions on zero waste practices, youth leadership, and the need for sustainable consumption. The event included presentations from youth leaders, experts, and UNEP on the importance of a circular economy and the role of youth in driving global change. 

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Empowering Women for a Sustainable Future: Caribbean Webinar Shines Light on Waste Management and Circular Economy Solutions

Held on March 12, 2024, this webinar aimed to highlight the role of women in shaping sustainable and resilient communities in the Caribbean. The event focused on women’s contributions to waste management and circular economy solutions. Key topics included successful initiatives led by women, challenges they face, and the importance of policies that support women’s involvement. Organized by UNEP, OECS, and UN Women Caribbean, it promoted networking, capacity building, and gender equality in sustainable development. 

Strengthening Waste Information Systems in the Caribbean. September 2023 Workshop: Next Steps

A webinar held on February 29, 2024, followed up on the September 2023 workshop in Kingston, Jamaica, addressing challenges in waste management and data collection systems. Organized by UNEP and partners under the EU-funded "Zero Waste in the Caribbean: New Ways New Waves" initiative, the event focused on building stronger waste information systems in the Caribbean. It aimed to share best practices, discuss standardized data formats, and explore technological solutions for real-time data collection. The event also emphasized capacity building for waste managers and statistical officers. 

UNEP’s Zero Waste in the Caribbean Project Joins World Wetlands Day Celebrations in Jamaica

On February 2, 2024, UNEP's Sub-Regional Office, under the "Zero Waste in the Caribbean: New Ways, New Waves" project, participated in World Wetlands Day in Jamaica. Held at the Mason River Protected Area in Clarendon, the event, organized with CARIFORUM and the UNEP Cartagena Convention Secretariat, aimed to raise awareness about wetland conservation and its role in biodiversity. Activities included guided tours, wetland presentations, and exhibits with local schools and environmental groups.

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Caribbean Leads the Way in Sustainable Waste Management: Resilient Islands Webinar Series

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and partners launched the "Resilient Islands: Zero Waste and Circular Caribbean" webinar series to promote sustainable waste management and circular economy practices across the Caribbean. The inaugural session, held on January 31, 2024, focused on "Waste Management Synergies: Bridging Public and Private Sectors for Sustainable Solutions" and attracted over 70 participants from across the region. The session highlighted the need for infrastructure investment and innovative solutions. Future webinars will continue exploring collaborative approaches for a cleaner, sustainable Caribbean. 

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7th High-Level Forum on Waste Management: Advancing Caribbean Sustainability

The 7th High-Level Forum of Caribbean Ministers Responsible for Waste Management (HLF 7) took place on October 26–27, 2023, in Georgetown, Guyana, under the patronage of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. organized by the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) with UNEP, CDB, and IDB, and supported by the EU-funded Zero Waste in the Caribbean: New Ways, New Waves project, the forum emphasized the ‘Roadmap to Zero Waste’. This initiative fostered dialogue among Caribbean waste ministers, professionals, and stakeholders to address plastic pollution, financing challenges, and regional waste management strategies. 

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International Coastal Cleanup Day 2023: Unity for a Cleaner Coastline

On September 16, 2023, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), through the Zero Waste in the Caribbean Project, joined forces with the Jamaican Women’s National Under-17 Football Team, the Senior National Men’s Volleyball Team, UNESCO, and other partners to participate in International Coastal Cleanup Day in Kingston, Jamaica. Organized by NEPA, this global event united communities and organizations to remove litter from coastal areas. Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the athletes traded their jerseys for gloves to tackle Kingston’s Palisades coastline, working alongside UNEP, UNESCO, and volunteers under the scorching sun to clear tons of plastic waste and debris threatening marine ecosystems. 

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Strengthening Waste Information Systems and Statistics in the Caribbean

From September 12 to 14, 2023, Kingston, Jamaica hosted the “Strengthening Waste Information Systems and Capacity to Generate Waste Statistics” workshop, with 51 participants from across the Caribbean attending in person and online. The event, opened by Hon. Desmond McKenzie and EU Ambassador Marianne Van Steen, aimed to improve waste data systems and foster Circular Economy investments. The workshop emphasized integrated waste strategies, sustainability principles like the polluter pays approach, and reducing waste in fragile island environments. Organized with partners including the EU, CARIFORUM, GIZ, and UNEP, the event highlighted the importance of robust waste information systems for promoting the circular economy and sustainable practices. 

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Youth Leading the Fight Against Plastic Pollution in Jamaica

From June 5 to September 30, 2023, in Kingston, Jamaica, the UN Jamaica joint project “Beat Plastic Pollution JA” (UNEP, CEP, UNESCO, UNICEF, UN-Women, FAO) partnered with the “Zero Waste in the Caribbean” initiative to empower youth in tackling plastic pollution. Key activities included a student video competition on plastic pollution initiatives, a youth roundtable on World Environment Day (June 5), ocean awareness events for children on Ocean Day (June 8), and a September workshop with experts to enhance student projects. These efforts align with the International Day of Zero Waste, promoting sustainable consumption and circularity to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. 

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Towards Zero Waste Through New Circular Economy Policies: Regional Technical Exchange

From 8 to 20 April 2023, meetings were held in Belize City. As part of the SICA Regional Environmental Forum, SICA/CCAD, with GIZ and UNEP, organized a technical exchange on 18–20 April. The event focused on circular economy policies and integrated waste management in Central America and the Caribbean. It brought together representatives from Caribe Circular and Zero Waste in the Caribbean to strengthen regional cooperation.

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Advancing Zero Waste in the Caribbean: A Regional Response to a Global Call

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 30 March as the International Day of Zero Waste in 2022, and the Day has been launched for the first last March 2023. It aimed to promote sustainable consumption and highlight how zero-waste initiatives support the 2030 Agenda. In the Caribbean, the EU-funded Zero Waste in the Caribbean: New Ways, New Waves project advanced this vision through regional action on waste reduction. Led by UNEP and partners, the project helped tackle pollution, protect biodiversity, and strengthen resilience.

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Gender Perspective and Experience on Climate Change and Waste in the Caribbean

The “Gender Perspective and Experience on Climate Change and Waste in the Caribbean” webinar was held on 23 March. The event was organized under the project Zero Waste in the Caribbean: New Ways, New Waves in partnership with UNEP Cartagena Convention Secretariat and UN Women. Its goal was to highlight positive examples of women's daily commitment to the environment, particularly in tackling waste and fighting climate change. Participants shared their professional journeys in the Caribbean, showcasing how their work supported the circular economy and contributed to the Global Goals.

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