End Plastic Pollution in Georgia
Duration: December 2023 – December 2024
Geographic area: Georgia
Implemented by: CENN
Donor: UNDP and Norway
Partner: Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia (MEPA)
Over the past decade, Georgia has witnessed a substantial increase in plastic production and imports, marking a 71% surge. This surge is particularly pronounced in single-use plastic (SUP) items, with PET granules registering a 122% increase and disposable tableware escalating by 135%. In 2020, nearly 93% of plastic items produced and imported in Georgia turned into waste, predominantly consisting of SUP. The repercussions extend to environmental pollution with plastic constituting over 95% of litter on Georgia’s beaches and plastic waste making up a significant portion of illegal dumpsites across the country.
The End Plastic Pollution in Georgia project supports MEPA in increasing the knowledge and capacity of stakeholders and the general public regarding circular models for plastic waste management. This will ultimately aid the GoG in implementing reforms and improving policy execution as it embarks on transitioning to a circular economy.
Circular economy and resource efficiency
The project facilitates cross-sectoral and multi-stakeholder collaboration to share experiences, discuss challenges and opportunities, and forge partnerships around circular economy.
Enabling business environment for an inclusive economy
The project supports the sustainability of local businesses by transitioning to a circular model through consultations, financial assistance and establishing the necessary business connections.
Human Capital Development
Launch pledging campaigns for businesses, institutions, and schools to encourage the adoption and application of circular plastic management practices in business operations and everyday life;
Hold summer camps to educate youth on the circular economy, plastic management across the value chain, and climate crisis;
Equip the public and stakeholders with educational, and knowledge materials providing practical tips and information on circular plastic waste management;
Conduct nationwide media campaigns to engage and educate the general public about sustainable consumption habits, the impact of plastic consumption on the environment and health, and promote circular economy models in plastic prevention