Context
The ASEAN region is one of the fastest-growing regions in the world with high population growth and rapid urbanisation. Cities and municipalities lack the resources and capacity to ensure clean air and land, as well as basic supplies in the water, waste and energy sectors. This is to change, as managing such services is key to a good-quality urban environment. In 2016, the volume of waste generated in Southeast Asia reached around 150 million tons. It remains one of the big challenges facing the region. It is estimated that waste generation will increase by 150 per cent in 2025 compared to 1995 levels unless something is done. In addition, tourism is becoming increasingly relevant as an economic factor. However, it is accompanied by growing amounts of waste. Small and medium-sized cities, in particular, are grappling with all these factors.
Objective
ASEAN Municipal Solid Waste Management (AMUSE) is improving environmental quality in small and medium-sized cities in the ASEAN region by optimising waste disposal and recycling.
Approach
The project applies a holistic, multi-level approach that addresses a wide range of relevant actors. The intermediaries include ASEAN Secretariat and the ASEAN Working Group on Environmentally Sustainable Cities (AWGESC) as well as national and local government structures. Among those who benefit are national and local tourism associations and local tourism operators. The project intends to cooperate with the tourism sector to prevent, dispose of and recycle waste within the scope of their activities. The urban population of the ASEAN Member States (AMS) is reached via intermediaries, in particular in the partner countries of Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Viet Nam and Thailand. By extension, other relevant public, private and civil society actors in the AMS will be involved in the project’s activities wherever possible and meaningful. As a result, the populations will profit from improved environmental conditions.
Last update: September 2022