Azerbaijan’s Permanent Representative to the UN: The Zero Waste Initiative Gained Global Support at COP29.
A special session was held at the UN General Assembly on March 30, marking International Zero Waste Day, initiated by Turkiye.
Azerbaijan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Tofig Musayev, emphasized the importance of the Zero Waste movement during his speech. He stated that the Zero Waste initiative gained significant global support during COP29.
The diplomat highly appreciated Turkey’s leadership in this field, especially the personal efforts of First Lady Emine Erdoğan.
Musayev informed the attendees about Azerbaijan’s steps in the Zero Waste sector and the work being done in this regard. He stated that Azerbaijan’s Zero Waste concept is one of the main principles in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and creating a greener planet: “Azerbaijan is taking concrete steps to accelerate progress in several SDGs. These include supporting local circular economy projects, promoting sustainable textile production, and initiatives to reduce waste through innovation and education.”
The ambassador highlighted that within the framework of COP29, Azerbaijan and Tokyo opened a joint pavilion in the green zone, demonstrating their commitment to contributing to ecological development through collective action: “Additionally, during COP29, a Declaration on Reducing Methane Emissions from Organic Waste was adopted. This document emphasizes the importance of comprehensive actions to prevent the rapid increase of waste, improve waste management, and expand the implementation of Zero Waste practices. As part of the COP29 Action Agenda, the "Multisectoral Action Pathways Declaration for Sustainable and Healthy Cities" aims to encourage a comprehensive approach to climate issues in cities, strengthen coordination among urban climate policies, and stimulate urban climate finance.”
Azerbaijan will host the 13th World Urban Forum in 2026: “This event will be an important platform for promoting sustainable urban development, strengthening Zero Waste initiatives, and reaffirming international commitments related to the creation of climate-resilient cities.”
Madina Mammadova//EDnews
