Conserving resources, promoting the circular economy and securing green jobs

Context

Colombia is laying the foundations for the transition from a linear system of waste management to a circular economy. As well as promoting new business models and creating green jobs, a circular economy enables resources to be used more efficiently and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. The country therefore needs to advance circular economy policies and strategies nationally and ensure that they are implemented locally. Cooperating with industry, the manufacturing sector and service providers is essential to achieving this.

Objective

The technical and institutional capacities of government and private sector actors have been improved, enabling Colombia to implement a circular economy effectively at local and national level.

Approach

The project pursues three approaches:

1. It works with the national government on strategies and policy instruments to promote the circular economy and create green jobs.

2. It supports local administrations in Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena and Cúcuta in integrating the topics of circular economy and green jobs into their planning and governance. It also develops public-private partnerships to implement circular economy business models in the four cities.

3. It promotes training and qualification measures. The project supports universities and vocational training centres in developing green content and integrating it into training courses. Graduates use this knowledge in their professional activities.

The project also promotes the dissemination of circular economy best practices and their application in other regions of the country, including through inter-municipal exchange.

Last update: February 2025