News: Varkala, Kerala, was included in the UN’s ‘20 Cities Towards Zero Waste’ initiative on the International Day of Zero Waste (March 30).
A global initiative launched in collaboration with UN-Habitat and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), under the guidance of the United Nations Zero Waste Advisory Board.
Under this program, 20 leading cities from around the world have been selected for demonstrating innovative approaches toward improving waste management, adopting circular economy models, and developing more sustainable and inclusive urban frameworks.
Objectives:
To recognize city leadership and innovation.
To promote the exchange of best practices and lessons learned.
To inspire other cities to accelerate their transition towards zero waste.
To support the implementation of circular economy approaches at the local level.
Contribution to SDGs: This initiative contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG-11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG-12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG-13 (Climate Action).
International Day of Zero Waste – 2026 Theme: "Food Waste"
UN-Habitat: The United Nations Human Settlements Programme
Headquarter: Nairobi (Kenya)
Establishment: 1978
(UN-Habitat) is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities.
The leading global entity responsible for sustainable urbanization; it ensures socially and environmentally sustainable urban development through policy advice and technical assistance in over 90 countries.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya.
Establishment: 1972.
As the leading global authority in the field of the environment, UNEP inspires and enables its 193 member states to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), thereby ensuring a harmonious life with nature without compromising the interests of future generations.
Flagship reports by UNEP: Global Environmental Outlook (GEO), Emissions Gap Report, Adaptation Gap Report, Global Biodiversity Outlook (GBO) etc.
