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Solomon Pavliashvili: “The state has the political will to encourage the business sector towards the transition to a circular economy”.
Mr. Pavliashvili participated in the Symposium “Waste Management and Circular Economy: Global Challenges and Solutions”, hosted by Georgian Technical University. Mrs Tamar Lominadze, Vice-Rector of the university; Mrs Nino Chkhobadze, Chair of “Greens of Georgia – Friends of the Earth”; and Mr Sadhan Kumar Ghosh, Visiting Professor from Jadavpur University, India, delivered the opening remarks.
In his address, the Deputy Minister outlined the state's efforts in adopting circular economy principles and the challenges ahead, noting that Georgia’s current circularity rate is only 1.3%. However, there is significant potential for growth across various sectors.
"In 2015, we adopted the Waste Management Code, and today, we have a Waste Management Strategy (2016–2030), a Waste Management Plan (2022–2026), and a National Environmental Program. These frameworks position the circular economy as a new platform for sustainable waste management. Many economic sectors have untapped resources to reuse waste and produce new products, fostering job creation. Recognizing the challenges businesses face in adapting to these changes, the state has the political will and is committed to supporting them in this transition. Together, we will achieve tangible results," Pavliashvili stated.
The scientific conference covered a range of critical topics, including solid household waste management, urban water management, the impact of climate change on tourism development, and micro-aerosol concentration assessments in Georgian cities.
Professor Sadhan Kumar Ghosh shared insights from India's experience with circular economy practices, emphasizing Georgia’s promising potential:
"Georgia is taking its first steps in circular economy implementation, but I am confident that within a few years, it will make significant progress in waste management and sustainability."
The symposium embraced representatives from the Waste Management Business Association, Georgian Greens – Friends of the Earth, Georgian Society of Natural Explorers “Orchis”, the Institute of Hydrometeorology, and various academic institutions.