Online Certificate Course Inclusive Circularity

Every year, over two billion tonne of municipal solid waste is generated by the world’s cities -- a figure that is set to double by 2050. This poses significant challenges for waste and sanitation management, particularly in the Global South with its limited resources and infrastructure. In such a scenario, informal waste workers play a crucial role in urban waste management, contributing to collection, segregation and recycling: in developing nations, they accountfor 20-60 per cent of recovered recyclables. Their efforts prevent thousands of tonne of waste materials from getting dumped in landfills daily – despite this contribution, this workforce does not receive adequate recognition and support. 

Integrating informal waste workers into formal waste management systems can enhance recycling rates, lower costs, stabilise markets, and reduce landfill dependency. This shift must be reinforced with clear policies on dignified working conditions and social protection for these workers, critical for just and inclusive circularity. The agenda of a Just Transition has gained traction in climate discussions, notably after COP30 in Brazil and INC-5.2 negotiations in Geneva on the Global Plastics Treaty. There is increasing acknowledgment that transforming the waste sector requires labor inclusion, GHG reduction and circular resource practices. Prioritising a fair transition for informal workers is essential for achieving climate and development goals. 

Any credible move toward circular and sustainable waste management must place waste workers at the centre. Their skills, knowledge, and contribution to resource recovery make them indispensable partners in systemic transformation. 

CSE is pleased to announce an eight-day global online certificate course whichaims to build the capacities of urban practitioners, policymakers, researchers and development professionals to promote inclusive, equitable and circular waste systems.

WHAT WILL THIS COURSE TEACH

• The global informal waste value chain and its economic importance
  ● Key stakeholders and their contributions across the solid waste value chain
  ● Opportunities in informal waste reuse, recovery and recycling
  ● Global discourse on Just Transition in major international forums
  ● Case studies on inclusive models and Just Transition for informal waste workers worldwide

For further details, contact:

Mou Sengupta
Programme Manager
Solid Waste Management and Circular Economy, CSE
Email : mou.sengupta@cseindia.org
Mobile: +91 9836448262

Shrotik Bose
Research Associate
Solid Waste Management and Circular Economy, CSE
Email : shrotik.bose@cseindia.org
Mobile: +91 9614489145