Lydia Sijp from the Cook Islands’ National Environment Service (NES) recently travelled to India to attend the 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific
The forum, which focused on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and carbon neutrality in the Asia-Pacific region, brought together 200 delegates from 38 Asia-Pacific countries, along with 300 delegates representing various Indian states and 60 cities.
The aim of the forum was to provide strategic policy input from Asia-Pacific governments on mainstreaming 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) and circular economy principles, while encouraging the sharing of best practices and innovative solutions among participating nations. Each country submitted a formal Country Statement, and delegates also participated in side events to present their initiatives and success stories.
For the Cook Islands, Lydia delivered a presentation highlighting the nation’s 5Rs approach to waste management: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle—making it the only Pacific country to have adopted a comprehensive 5Rs Waste Management Plan.
One of the most impressive parts of the trip was witnessing India’s large-scale infrastructure in action. A standout experience was a site visit to a newly established Waste-to-Energy facility, a joint venture between India and China. This plant processes 700 tons of solid waste daily, converting it into 12 megawatts of power to serve Jaipur and the surrounding areas. The visit was a testament to India’s commitment to a clean and green future, exemplified further by the promotion of the Jaipur Declaration (2025–2035)—a non-binding statement of intent to foster resource efficiency and a low-carbon society.
The forum was co-hosted by the Governments of India and Japan, alongside UNDP, who generously sponsored Lydia’s attendance at this milestone international event.
