The World Biogas Association (WBA) — in collaboration with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) and the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (IGSD) — is hosting a panel discussion looking at how the waste sector can reduce its methane emissions through better management of organic waste and recycling through anaerobic digestion.  The event is also supported by GHD.

The session is an official side event at COP28 in Dubai. It will take place in-person in SE Room 5 in the Blue Zone* and will be simultaneously livestreamed online free-of-charge.

The waste sector (ie. organic wastes in landfills and open dumps, wastewater) is the third largest source of all anthropogenic methane emissions. To be consistent with IPCC 1.5 °C scenarios, methane emissions from the waste sector should be reduced by approximately 30-35% below 2020 levels by 2030 and nearly 55% by 2050. Launched at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021, the Global Methane Pledge commits signatory countries to take voluntary action to cut global methane emissions by at least 30% from 2020 levels by 2030. Over 150 countries have signed to date.

The expert speakers at the event will provide insights into the challenges and opportunities to reduce methane emissions from the waste sector, and what is needed from all stakeholders to overcome barriers and deliver on their industry’s objectives.

• Martina Otto, Head of Secretariat, Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC),
• Carlos Silva Filho, President, International Solid Waste Association (ISWA),
• Charlotte Morton OBE, Chief Executive, World Biogas Association (WBA),
• Robert Dysiewicz, Vice President, Integrated Utilities – Future Energy, GHD,
• Zachary Tofias, Director of Food and Waste, C40 Cities.

The session will also feature senior representatives of two signatory countries to the Global Methane Pledge which are focussing on reducing their methane emissions from the waste sector.

*Note: People with ‘Blue Zone access’ can attend the in-person format by simply walking into the room on the day. Anyone outside the Blue Zone can access the livestream.