Networking of Recycling Zones in Asia Proposed

The Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) in Japan launched a publication named "Policy Briefs" on June 2, 2005. One article in the inaugural issue proposes the networking of international recycling zones in Asia.

In Asia, the cross-border market for recyclables is expanding rapidly. At the same time, measures are urgently needed to tackle the illegal dumping of waste, a practice that is causing negative impacts on the environment and human health.

This proposal constitutes a strategy to promote an international market for recyclable materials and remanufactured goods, one of the main topics at the Ministerial Conference for Reduce, Reuse and Recycle ("3R") Initiative, held in Tokyo at the end of April 2005. Besides reducing illegal activities such as intentional misreporting and covert trade, it aims to assist developing countries in promoting proper waste management and to promote an environmentally and economically sound cross-border market for recyclables and remanufactured goods.

The proposed policy consists of three components: introducing a certification system, establishing international recycling zones in Asia, and networking among those recycling zones. Under the proposed certification system, governments can authorize certain enterprises to conduct international trade in recyclables. Ports and industrial zones that receive and process recyclables, imported under official supervision, would be designated as international recycling zones. The aim of networking would be to monitor cross-border trade in recyclables, support human capacity building in the field of waste management, and develop and spread technologies.

http://www.iges.or.jp/en/news/press/05_06_02.html
http://www.iges.or.jp/en/pub/policybrief.html

Posted: 2005/10/26 10:15:57 AM
Japanese version