COP31: Experts urge governments to ditch incineration for zero waste climate solutions

World leaders convening at COP31 are being urged to abandon waste incineration in favor of genuine zero waste strategies by climate advocates, researchers, and local government officials. At a press conference titled “Zero Waste COP- Incinerators Out. Zero Waste In,” experts stressed that tackling climate change through waste management demands tackling the issue at its origin rather than expanding disposal facilities.

Mariel Vilella, Climate Program Director at GAIA, stated, “Zero waste is climate action—but only when we address the problem at its source. We cannot solve the waste crisis by building more infrastructure to burn or dispose of what we produce.” Preventing waste and promoting reuse and composting organic materials are cost-effective and proven methods that can reduce emissions while benefiting communities.

Mohamed Kamal, Coordinator of CANAW, added, “We cannot tackle climate change while allowing plastic production to keep expanding. Reducing plastic production and scaling reuse must be part of any credible climate strategy.” The promotion of waste-to-energy incineration is also a cause for concern. A new GAIA Africa report scrutinizes 15 incineration projects across 10 African nations, questioning their sustainability.

Weyinmi Okotie, Executive Director of Green Knowledge Foundation, cautioned, “Incineration can lock municipalities into expensive infrastructure, expose communities to harmful pollution, and divert resources from more inclusive zero waste alternatives.” African countries need solutions tailored to their specific waste challenges, not expensive technologies that generate new problems.

Investment disparities present a significant obstacle to the zero waste transition. Jacob Johnson Attakpah, Zero Waste Director of the Green Africa Youth Organisation, urged a shift in investment priorities: “Governments and climate financiers must correct this imbalance and make climate finance accessible to the communities and cities already delivering solutions.”

Cities are showcasing practical zero waste solutions. Shahriar Hossain from Bangladesh's Government underscored the importance of local government action. Cities face both the waste and climate crises frontline but also hold the key to scalable zero waste systems. Strong political backing, sustained public investment, and enabling policies are essential.

The press conference called for climate commitments to be translated into actionable policies and financing prioritizing prevention over disposal. COP31 runs from November 9 to 20 in Antalya.