Context:
Varkala (Kerala) has been selected under the ‘20 Cities Towards Zero Waste’ initiative, recognizing its sustainable waste management practices.
Key Highlights:
- About the Initiative:
- Led by the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste
- Supported by UN-Habitat and UNEP
- Focuses on cities adopting innovative waste management and circular economy solutions
- Objectives:
- Recognize leadership and innovation in waste reduction
- Promote exchange of best practices globally
- Inspire cities to transition towards zero waste systems
- Strengthen circular economy approaches at local level
- Key Focus Areas:
- Waste minimisation and recycling
- Sustainable urban systems
- Inclusive and resilient city planning
- About UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme):
- Established in 1972 after UN General Assembly resolution
- Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya
- Acts as global environmental authority
- Functions of UNEP:
- Supports global environmental treaties (CBD, CITES, Minamata Convention)
- Publishes reports like Global Environment Outlook, Emissions Gap Report
- Provides technical and financial support to developing countries
- Indian Context:
- Varkala recognized for innovative waste management practices
- Aligns with India’s Swachh Bharat Mission & circular economy goals
Relevant Prelims Points:
- UNEP headquarters: Nairobi
- Key conventions: CBD, CITES, Minamata
- Concept of circular economy vs linear economy
- Global initiatives on zero waste and sustainability
Relevant Mains Points:
- Importance of urban waste management in sustainable development
- Role of circular economy in reducing resource pressure
- Challenges:
- Urban waste generation
- Poor segregation and recycling infrastructure
- Behavioural issues
- Significance for India:
- Supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities)
- Enhances urban resilience and environmental sustainability
- Way Forward:
- Strengthen decentralised waste management systems
- Promote segregation at source and recycling industries
- Encourage public participation and awareness
- Integrate circular economy into urban planning policies
UPSC Relevance:
- Prelims: UNEP, environmental conventions, circular economy
- Mains: GS III – Environment, Urban Development, Sustainability