Six Cities Join Regional Circular Economy Plastic Network

Six cities across Latin America and the Caribbean have joined a new regional network aimed at tackling plastic pollution through circular economy approaches. The initiative, launched under the GEF Project for Reducing Marine Plastics and Plastic Pollution in Latin American and Caribbean Cities, includes Barranquilla and Cartagena in Colombia; Kingston and Montego Bay in Jamaica; and Panama City and Colon in Panama.

The “Network of Cities on Circular Economy of Plastics in Latin America and the Caribbean” will promote regional cooperation, exchange of best practices, and implementation of sustainable strategies to reduce plastic waste, including marine plastics. Jacqueline Álvarez, Head of the Chemicals and Health Branch, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), called the launch a milestone in coordinated regional efforts. She emphasized the network’s role in fostering local solutions and a shared vision across participating cities.

Dumek Turbay, Cartagena Mayor said the city’s inclusion in the network reflects its ongoing commitment to sustainability, as outlined in the municipal development plan. Turbay highlighted local efforts such as supporting informal recycling organizations, developing sustainable business models, and promoting green jobs aligned with circular economy principles. He also noted environmental actions supported by local authorities, including the protection of water bodies, ecosystem restoration, and the adoption of sustainable practices to improve environmental equity.

The platform is supported by UNEP’s regional office and the Secretariat of the Cartagena Convention. It aims to help cities implement circular economy strategies throughout the plastic value chain and to build partnerships with multiple stakeholders. The launch event brought together representatives from national and municipal governments, the Global Environment Facility (GEF), and UNEP. Participants underscored the importance of regional collaboration in addressing plastic pollution and advancing sustainable development.

Expected outcomes include a harmonized regional agenda, a coordinated approach to circular plastic economies, and improved understanding of circular solutions at local, national, and regional levels. The network also plans to expand to nine additional cities, broadening its reach and fostering greater knowledge exchange throughout the region