UNDP and Coca-Cola Foundation Partner to Tackle Plastic Waste in Asia

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF) have joined forces to combat the escalating plastic waste crisis in Asia. The partnership aims to address challenges posed by rapid urbanization, the rising demand for single-use plastics, and inadequate waste management infrastructure.

Asia is a major contributor to global plastic pollution, with 16 of the top 20 polluting rivers located in the region. These waterways account for over two-thirds of the plastic waste that enters the world’s oceans, threatening marine ecosystems, human health, and livelihoods.

In response, UNDP and TCCF have launched a three-year multi-country initiative, backed by a $15 million grant from TCCF. The programme will be implemented in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Maldives, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. It seeks to enhance plastic waste management, promote recycling, and reduce plastic leakage into the environment by fostering localized solutions and regional collaboration.

The initiative, launched today in India, will focus on expanding successful waste management practices, developing innovative business models for waste collection, and leveraging technology to improve recycling efforts. The programme also aims to empower communities and advocate for policy changes that support a circular economy.

"This initiative is about building smarter development models. Countries across Asia are embracing circular economy principles to combat plastic waste," said Christophe Bahuet, UNDP Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.

Carlos Pagoaga, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation, emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, "Through our partnership with UNDP, we aim to enhance waste management systems and recycling infrastructure to support long-term environmental and community benefits."

The Coca-Cola Foundation, established in 1984, has provided over $1.6 billion in grants to support community development efforts globally, focusing on water sustainability, climate resilience, economic empowerment, and circular economy initiatives.