This project supports ASEAN Member States (AMS) in advancing toward a resource efficient, circular society by enhancing its capacity to implement integrated solid waste management (ISWM) practices and catalytic waste investment projects by 2026. It leverages Republic of Korea’s experiences to find suitable solutions for regional IMSWM challenges. Aligning with ASEAN Community 2025 vision and Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint 2025, it promotes sustainable urban planning, coordinated efforts for a clean environment, and improved waste management. The project supports SDG 11 and ASEAN Vision 2040, aiming to formulate a regional IMSWM framework, accelerate investments, establish an online knowledge-sharing platform, and enhance AMS-Korea exchange. It targets USD 100 million in investment mobilization, reducing 6 mtCO2eq, creating 1,300 indirect green jobs and benefiting 4 million people in AMS.

The project aims to provide improved access to Sustainable Waste Management to up to 4 million people across ASEAN countries. To do so, the project focuses on four objectives:

– Strengthened and coherent regional IMSWM framework formulated to support ASEAN Vision 2040 and ASCC Blueprint in 2025.
– Investment for priority IMSWM projects accelerated
– Multi-stakeholder IMSWM knowledge sharing and collaboration platform for AMS established
– IMSWM capacity in AMS and AMS-Korea knowledge exchange strengthened

Rapid economic and urban development has increased MSW generation, outpacing waste management capabilities. Common disposal methods include open dumping and burning, posing health and safety risks, especially to waste pickers. While landfills remain the cheapest disposal option, they struggle with the increasing waste volume. Waste-to-energy (WTE) solutions are present in some AMS, with operational plants in Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, and upcoming infrastructure in Indonesia by 2022.

AMS tackle solid waste management (SWM) through relevant laws, policies, and strategies. National ministries typically set policies, local governments manage waste services, and the private sector, NGOs, and communities are involved. However, SWM faces challenges like stakeholder fragmentation and weak coordination. Regional efforts, such as the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Environment, emphasize cooperative management of climate change, marine pollution, sustainable cities, and circular economy issues.

Regional Framework for Integrated Municipal Solid Waste Management: Project aims to develop a coherent regional framework for IMSWM, supporting ASEAN Vision 2040 and ASCC Blueprint 2025.

Priority Areas and Strategy Development: Identifies key intervention areas, best practices, and performance standards. Creates inclusive solutions & develops 2030 ASEAN Waste Strategy based on global insights.

Comprehensive Approach to IMSWM: Develops analytical framework covering policy, technological, financial, and capacity-building actions for IMSWM.

Unlocking Capital for IMSWM Projects: Facilitates long-term capital investment for AMS, focusing on priority IMSWM projects.

Promoting Green and Circular IMSWM: Practices Collaborates with government counterparts to strategize and expedite adoption of green and circular IMSWM practices.

Multi-Stakeholder IMSWM Information Hub: Establishes platform for knowledge sharing, providing updates on policy, trends, innovations, and facilitating partnerships for innovative waste projects.