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By ensuring that materials do not become waste, it reduces environmental impact and promotes a sustainable, resilient economy through collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society, and consumers. The ‘Circular Cities’ city-to-city cooperation between Zurich (Switzerland), Santa Cruz (Bolivia) and Cali (Colombia) aims to transform waste management, shifting the waste sector from a disposal service to a sustainable resource economy, while protecting the environment and creating employment opportunities.
‘Circular Cities’ is a collaboration between Zurich, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, and Santiago de Cali to improve solid waste management through circular economy principles. This approach focusses on reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling to create a closed-loop system that minimises environmental impact.
In Cali and Santa Cruz, the initiative supports the formalisation of waste picker associations, improving their working conditions and income by providing training and market access. Recyclable materials collected by waste pickers are reintroduced into local production chains, reducing the need for virgin materials. Additionally, composting solutions transform organic waste into valuable resources.
Communication strategies are implemented to encourage waste separation at the source and educate the population about recycling. Both cities receive technical assistance to develop inclusive regulations and strengthen recycling systems, significantly improving the quality of life for waste pickers, most of whom are women.
'Circular Cities' also addresses the challenge of disconnected stakeholders by focusing on the entire value chain. It emphasises that waste picker associations are vital parts of a larger ecosystem, aiming to understand each role within the chain and foster collaboration for mutual benefit. The ultimate goal is to create a win-win scenario that prioritises community impact and sustainable growth for all.