The World Bank Tokyo Development Learning Center (TDLC) organized a virtual Technical Deep Dive (TDD) on Solid Waste Management (SWM) and Circular Economy from October 18 to 22, 2021.
Municipal solid waste management is one of the most expensive budget items in the balance sheets of many local authorities. Many city governments across the world spend a lot of money and are yet struggling to keep their cities clean. COVID-19 has further exacerbated the financial and technical capacities of the local authorities to manage their waste efficiently.
With this background, TDLC organized SWM TDD focusing on resource-efficient, regenerative, and sustainable waste management promoting circular economy. Focus of the TDD was also on the financial aspects of municipal waste management, including funding mechanisms and innovative financial schemes. The TDD showcased examples from Japan and other developed countries on what approaches are they adopting to achieve the objectives of circular economy. Case studies supporting resilient waste management techniques and experiences in the light of the global pandemic were also shared. The event served as a platform for countries facing similar urban development challenges to find appropriate solutions by learning from their global peers.