As part of the PAGE programme, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) led the First Circular Economy Congress, held on 5 February, in Guatemala City, to explore innovative solutions for waste management in compliance with Governmental Agreement No. 164-2021, which promotes sustainable solid waste management practices.
The event also emphasized initiatives like the primary classification of waste and the development of short, medium, and long-term strategies to promote a more sustainable industry.
Patricia Orantes, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources and Edwin Castellanos Vice Minister of Natural Resources y Climate Change attended the event. The UN Resident Coordinator Miguel Barreto shared opening remarks.
Participants exchanged local and international experiences, focusing on implementing sustainable practices to reduce waste and enhance recycling. The circular economy presents opportunities to lessen environmental impact, foster innovation, and create green jobs.
The event brought together 252 representatives from government, municipalities, the private sector, academia and civil society.
Since 2021, Guatemala is a partner country of the Partnership for Action on Green Economy (PAGE), an initiative which consists of five UN agencies: UNDP, UNEP, UNITAR, UNIDO and ILO.
Guatemala joined PAGE with the objective to integrate the goals of an inclusive green economy (IGE) in national planning, implement sectoral reforms in accordance with national priorities and strengthen individual and institutional capacities.
PAGE is supporting Guatemala to transition towards a green and inclusive economy, promoting collaboration between central governments, local governments, the private sector, academia, civil society and others.
Sources: AGN, PAGE Guatemala
