The “C asean Forum: ASEAN Action Towards Circular Economy: Move Forward with Extended Producer Responsibility” event is a collaborative effort organised by the ASEAN Centre for Sustainable Development Studies and Dialogue (ACSDSD), the C-asean and Thailand Supply Chain Network. Its primary objective is to foster a collaborative and informed dialogue, inspiring actionable strategies for adopting EPR across the ASEAN region. By bringing diverse perspectives and experiences together, the event seeks to develop a roadmap for incorporating EPR principles into national policies, industry practices, and community initiatives. The ultimate vision is to propel ASEAN towards a Circular Economy that safeguards the environment and catalyses economic growth and social well-being. This conference stands as a testament to ASEAN’s commitment to sustainable development and responsible resource management, setting the stage for a future where circularity is not just an aspiration but a shared reality.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with the pressing challenges of environmental sustainability, resource depletion, and waste management. As the region witnesses rapid economic growth and urbanisation, there is an urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we consume and produce. In response to this imperative, ASEAN actively engages in initiatives promoting a Circular Economy, acknowledging it as a crucial avenue to harmonise economic development with environmental stewardship.
The Circular Economy represents a departure from the linear “take, make, dispose” model, emphasising the regenerative and sustainable use of resources. It envisions a system where products are designed to be reused, repaired, and recycled, reducing the strain on natural resources and minimising waste. For ASEAN, embracing the Circular Economy is an environmental necessity and a strategic move towards resilience and long-term prosperity. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) as a Catalyst: At the heart of this transition lies the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This policy approach holds manufacturers accountable for the entire life cycle of their products, including post-consumer waste management. EPR is gaining prominence globally as a powerful tool to incentivise producers to design eco-friendly products, minimise waste, and actively participate in the recycling and recovery processes.
The “ASEAN Action Towards Circular Econoiny: Move Forward with Extended Producer Responsibility” forum is a collaborative effort organised by the ASEAN Centre for Sustainable Development Studies and Dialogue (ACSDSD), C asean (Social Enterprise) and Thailand Supply Chain Network, scheduled for Thursday, 28 March 2024, at the C asean Auditorium, 10th floor, CW Tower, Ratchadapisek Road, Bangkok, is pivotal for ASEAN nations to deliberate on integrating EPR principles within the Circular Economy framework. The event will provide a comprehensive platform for stakeholders, from policymakers and industry leaders to environmental advocates, to collectively address the challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning towards a Circular Economy. Its primary objective is to foster a collaborative and informed dialogue, inspiring actionable strategies for adopting EPR across the ASEAN region. By bringing diverse perspectives and experiences together, the event seeks to develop a roadmap for incorporating EPR principles into national policies, industry practices, and community initiatives. The ultimate vision is to propel ASEAN towards a Circular Economy that safeguards the environment and catalyses economic growth and social well-being. This conference stands as a testament to ASEAN’s commitment to sustainable development and responsible resource management, setting the stage for a future where circularity is not just an aspiration but a shared reality.
