The panel Discussion on Global Citizenship, held as part of the ISWA 2023 World Congress highlighted the importance of individual and collective actions in addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. It underscored the role of individuals, communities, organizations and nations in actively engaging with climate-related challenges and making a positive impact on the environment.  

The panel began with a special virtual address by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Prof. Muhammed Yunus, Co-founder & Chairman, Yunus Environment Hub. Followed by a presentation by moderator: Dr. Simon Baptist, Global Chief Economist, The Economist Intelligence Unit, Singapore, on the waste management practices across the globe, highlighting the challenges and benefits. 

 Carlos Silva Filho, President, ISWA, Brazil, set the stage by emphasising the need for reliable and up-to-date information as a foundational element for planning a sustainable future. He stressed that waste management is not solely about discarding items; it begins with responsible consumption decisions. Filho also called for industry producers to actively engage in the sustainability agenda, as waste management companies alone cannot resolve issues stemming from poorly designed or assembled products. A multi-stakeholder approach, fueled by reliable data, holds the key to progress.

While global policies for achieving net-zero emissions still face many challenges, a circular economy is gaining prominence. However, the waste management landscape varies significantly worldwide, with some nations excelling in waste transformation while others struggle with inadequate waste management. Many countries possess legislation for improved waste management, but they often struggle to enforce it. Enforcement, therefore, becomes a critical component in shifting towards a more circular and sustainable approach, he said. 

Dr. Mohab Al Hinai, VP Sustainability & Circular Economy, be’ah, Sultanate of Oman, discussed the pivotal role of companies in advancing the circular economy vision. He emphasised the need to instill sustainability values in young generations and collaborate with governments, NGOs, academia, and other stakeholders. The circular economy can diversify economies, reduce waste, and offer new opportunities for growth and prosperity. Transforming the mindset and engaging youth in the journey towards sustainability is essential.

Pascal Grante, CEO, Veolia Near and Middle East, UAE, highlighted the importance of holistic collaboration across nations, industries, and communities. He revealed that over 80 per cent of the global population understands the urgent need for climate action. The challenge lies in translating this collective desire into tangible actions. The circular economy provides opportunities for sustainable waste management, but the key is to engage various stakeholders, including regulators, financial institutions, and society as a whole.

Eng. Ziyad Al-Shiha, Group CEO, Saudi Investment Recycling Company – SIRC, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, discussed the role of the circular economy in Saudi Arabia's transformation vision. He pointed out that the ambitious Saudi Green Initiative aims to achieve 94% landfill diversion by 2030. Saudi Arabia's journey starts with a clear vision, translating into actionable mandates and effective regulation. The nation invites local and global players to participate, encouraging investments in waste management and recycling to shape a sustainable future.

Eng. Ali Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and CEO, Tadweer, UAE, emphasised the role of technology in waste management and its contribution to reducing emissions. He discussed various strategies, such as electrification of waste collection fleets and the deployment of sensors for optimising operations. Dhaheri highlighted the importance of emerging technologies, particularly chemical recycling for PET, which has the potential to revolutionise the industry.

One of the major challenges in waste management is the need to engage individuals in responsible consumption and recycling. To move towards sustainability, it's crucial to change the perception of waste, making it seen as a valuable resource and not a burden. AI and robotics for waste segregation were also discussed as technology solutions that could enhance recycling economics, he added. 

The discussion identified several crucial areas for further exploration in the waste management industry such as regulatory and enforcement measures, private sector investment, future technologies, engaging individuals in sustainability and holistic accounting.