Antalya – Turkey – 11 November 2026 – The National Pavilion of the Republic of Kazakhstan at the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) hosted a session titled “From Commitments to Implementation: A Partnership Framework for the Circular Economy in Central Asia”, bringing together representatives of Central Asian countries and international partners to discuss opportunities for advancing the circular economy across the region.
Organized by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Zhasyl Damu JSC, with the participation of UNEP, EU SWITCH-Asia and the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC), the session continued the regional dialogue initiated with the presentation of the Central Asia Circular Economy Partnership Framework at the Regional Ecological Summit in Astana in April 2026. The Framework aims to strengthen regional cooperation, facilitate knowledge sharing and promote practical approaches to circular economy development.
The discussions focused on the role of legislative and institutional mechanisms in creating an enabling environment for the transition to a circular economy. Participants explored national approaches to improving regulatory frameworks, developing extended producer responsibility (EPR) mechanisms and circular markets, as well as using financial instruments to encourage investment in circular economy initiatives.
A separate panel examined international experience and practical tools for advancing circular solutions, including sustainable finance, waste management infrastructure, resource efficiency and opportunities for technical assistance and knowledge exchange. Particular attention was given to the potential for stronger cooperation between Central Asian countries and international partners.
The programme also featured a presentation on Almaty's Zero Waste programme, highlighting approaches to transforming society through the waste hierarchy and the use of digital tools.
The session provided a platform for exchanging experience and identifying potential areas for further regional cooperation under the Central Asia Circular Economy Partnership Framework, supporting the transition from shared commitments towards practical circular economy solutions.
Additional information:
Dilovarsho Dustzoda Advisor to the CAREC Executive Director