Within the framework of the Regional Environmental Summit (RES-2026), that will be held on April 22–24, 2026 in Astana, Central Asian countries will discuss the transition to a circular (closed-loop) economy. The main goal of the meeting is to unite regional efforts to combat waste and improve resource efficiency.

The thematic session “Scaling the Circular Economy” on April 22 will bring together environment ministers, leaders of the UNEP, experts from the World Bank, and ambassadors of the European Union. Participants plan to take the first step toward creating a regional alliance that will help harmonize laws and environmental standards across the five countries of the region.

The traditional “take–make–dispose” model no longer works: growing waste volumes negatively affect human health and water resources. Transitioning to a circular model, where waste becomes a resource, will:

• create new jobs in the recycling sector;

• reduce pressure on ecosystems and the climate;

• open new markets in construction, industry, and tourism.

Key initiatives

One of the main topics will be the introduction of best practices in agriculture and waste recycling. A Framework Partnership Program will also be presented — a unified platform for knowledge exchange that will help Central Asian countries adopt innovations faster and meet international environmental commitments.

For the people of Central Asia, this project means improved environmental quality and stronger food security. Regional coordination will help attract investment in modern waste management infrastructure and make the region’s economy more resilient to global challenges.

ORIENT

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