In 2020, the PREVENT Waste Alliance called for innovative and scalable solutions that contribute to a circular economy in low- and middle-income countries. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, special focus was laid on projects that strengthen systems against future crises.

The German Development Minister, Gerd Müller, announced the eight selected pilot projects during the PREVENT General Assembly in December 2020. The innovative solutions will now be implemented by PREVENT members and partner organisations in 15 countries worldwide until June 2022. The thematic scope ranges from plastic waste, e-waste, organic waste to improving framework conditions.

For example, in Quito, Ecuador, a system is being set up in which manufacturers of electric and electronic equipment pay for the collection and recycling of old devices. In parallel, mobile e-waste collection points are being installed in the capital, which at the same time serve as learning centres for the population.

An important aspect of the pilot projects is their replicability and scalability after successful implementation. 

The PREVENT Waste Alliance, launched in 2019 by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), serves as a platform for exchange and international cooperation. It strengthens cross-sectoral collaboration along international value chains. Organisations from the private sector, academia, civil society and public institutions jointly engage for a circular economy. PREVENT members contribute to minimising waste, eliminating pollutants and maximising the reutilisation of resources in the economy worldwide. They strive to reduce waste pollution in low- and middle-income countries and work together for the prevention, collection, and recycling of waste, as well as the increased uptake of secondary resources.

For more information on PREVENT products and pilot project visit the PREVENT Waste Alliance website.