Speech by Vladanka Andreeva, UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, at the opening of International Forum on Green World Solidarity

Excellencies, Distinguished Participants:

It is my great pleasure to join you for the International Forum on Green World Solidarity: Shifting from Waste to Value for a Sustainable Future. 

I appreciate the forward-looking spirit of the Forum – as evident in the title of this event.

Over the last few months, in different fora, we  have been discussing the importance of collective actions that need to be undertaken urgently  to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees. 

To stay within that limit, and achieve Paris Agreement's targets,  the global greenhouse gas emissions need to be cut by 43% by 2030, from 2019 levels, aiming for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

In 2022, the waste sector contributed approximately 23% of global methane emissions and 5% of nitrous oxide emissions, both potent greenhouse gases. These emissions largely stem from waste generated by production, consumption, and landfills. 

As we prepare for COP29 in Baku this November, this Forum offers a timely opportunity to advance sustainable waste management and explore economic opportunities in waste-to-value transformations.

Distinguished Participants:

A circular economy—where we share, lease, reuse, repair, refurbish, and recycle materials and products for as long as possible—reduces waste to a minimum.

So, how can we minimize waste and enhance circularity in our economies and lives?

By shifting from a linear model of "take-make-dispose" to a regenerative approach  that prioritizes restoration and regeneration of products, materials and energy.

Adopting circular models requires strong institutions to implement integrated policies and create incentives for recycling and reuse.

Technological advancements today allow us to significantly reduce waste, but we need more investment in waste recycling processes.

Crucially, greening the demand side is essential. Changing behaviors among institutions, business and households is key to improving resource efficiency, reducing waste, and minimizing pollution. 

Distinguished Participants:

The UN commends the Government of Azerbaijan’s efforts to enhance waste management. However, with economic growth and increased consumption, waste volume has steadily risen.

The UN, through UNEP and UNIDO, is collaborating with Azerbaijan on projects like debris management in Karabakh and promoting circular production models with the private sector.

Last year, UNECE completed the Third Environmental Performance Review of Azerbaijan, offering recommendations on managing solid waste, wastewaters, industrial and chemical waste, household waste, and emphasizing integrated strategies.

I hope the policy recommendations from this Forum will support Azerbaijan’s transition to a circular economy and sustainable waste management, creating positive momentum ahead of COP29.

The UN system in Azerbaijan stands ready and committed to collaborating with the Government, private sector, and other stakeholders to advance this transition effectively.

Thank you!