Transcript:
Every year, we generate between 2.1 and 2.8 billion tons of municipal waste. Year after year, this continues to increase. If we do not act now, this number could reach 3.8 billion tons by 2050 — significantly contributing to the triple planetary crisis.
On this Zero Waste Day, UN-Habitat reaffirms its commitment to promoting sustainable cities and communities where waste is minimized, resources are used wisely, and no one is left behind.
This year, for the first time, Zero Waste Day focuses on fashion and textiles — a sector that generates an enormous amount of waste annually, but also holds the potential for real change. From rethinking fast fashion to reducing waste as its source, we must transition toward more circular economic models in fashion and textiles.
As cities grow, so does the waste they generate. Fashion and textile waste make up a significant share of municipal waste. The rapid rise of fast fashion and overproduction is burdening our cities with the uncontrolled disposal of discarded clothing and fabrics. Many cities are struggling as the neighborhoods are becoming unintended dumping grounds for textile waste.
This impact is especially severe for the 1.1 billion people living in informal settlements and slums, where waste collection and sanitation services are limited or nonexistent.
We must rethink our relationship with fast fashion — from production to consumption and disposal — to realize the ambition of zero waste. Cities can lead the way by promoting circular economies, encouraging textile innovation, and implementing solutions such as clothing banks for reuse and safe disposal.
At the same time, we must ensure that informal waste workers — who play a vital role in waste management across many cities — are integrated into city-led solutions.
UN-Habitat remains steadfast in its commitment to global cooperation while directly addressing urban waste challenges. Through initiatives like Waste Wise Cities and the African Clean Cities Platform, we facilitate mutual learning among cities, share best practices, and promote solutions that improve waste management systems — accelerating the transition toward zero waste models.
By working together, we can build a future where waste is no longer a problem, but a resource.
Today, I call upon each of you to take action in your daily life. Together, we can become waste-wise.
