Waste management remains a major challenge for cities, with significant impacts on climate, public health and economic development. This side event, held on 2 June 2022 during Stockholm+50, brought together mayors and global experts to discuss how local action can drive progress towards zero waste.
The discussion highlighted the scale of the issue. Waste generation is expected to rise sharply, with a large share still mismanaged through open dumping and burning. Limited access to collection services and low recycling rates continue to affect many regions, particularly in developing countries.
Speakers emphasised that municipalities are central to addressing these challenges. Waste management is a core public service, requiring strong local leadership, clear governance and long-term planning. Cities play a key role in ensuring equitable access to services and in coordinating with national governments, private sector actors and communities.
The session also explored practical solutions. These included improving collection systems, reducing plastic waste and marine litter, and applying circular economy approaches to reduce reliance on virgin materials. UNDP’s Zero Waste Offer was presented as a framework to support countries in strengthening waste systems and advancing circular practices.
During the mayors’ dialogue, city leaders shared experiences on common challenges such as financing, rapid urbanisation and limited infrastructure. The discussion reinforced the need for stronger partnerships, including public-private collaboration, and greater producer responsibility to reduce waste at source.