The 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific concluded with the unanimous adoption of the ‘Jaipur Declaration’ by participating member countries. The declaration outlines key strategies to enhance resource efficiency, promote sustainable material consumption, and strengthen waste management systems across the region.
A major highlight of the forum was India’s proposal to establish the ‘Cities Coalition for Circularity’ (C-3), a multi-stakeholder global alliance aimed at facilitating knowledge sharing and city-to-city collaboration in circular economy practices. Union Minister Manohar Lal emphasized that the Jaipur Declaration is a testament to collective commitment towards sustainability, adding that while the declaration is non-binding, it will serve as a guiding framework for member nations in their transition towards a circular economy.
Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Tokhan Sahu, called the forum a historic moment, underscoring the necessity of adopting the 3R principles—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—as a fundamental approach to resource conservation. The event featured discussions on waste management, environmental sustainability, gender inclusivity, and labor-related issues in the informal sector.
During the forum, key announcements aligned with India’s sustainability vision were made. The Prime Minister’s message, presented at the inaugural session, reinforced the country’s ‘Pro Planet People’ (P-3) approach. India also formally announced its candidacy to host the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026.
A major milestone was the rollout of CITIIS 2.0, an initiative under which agreements worth ₹1,800 crore were signed for integrated waste management and climate action projects across 18 cities in 14 states. The forum also saw the launch of the SBM Waste to Wealth PMS Portal, IFC Document Reference Guide, and India’s ‘Circular Sutra,’ a compilation of 126 best practices compiled by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA).
International and Domestic Participation
The forum witnessed high-level participation, with 24 Asia-Pacific member countries and nearly 200 international delegates attending the event. Union Minister Manohar Lal inaugurated the event alongside ministers from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. International representation included ministers from Japan, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Maldives. Over 800 delegates from India, representing 33 states and union territories, 15 line ministries, and private sector stakeholders, participated in discussions on sustainability and circular economy.
A key feature of the event was the ‘India Pavilion’ and the ‘3R Trade and Technology Exhibition,’ where over 40 Indian and Japanese businesses and startups showcased innovative solutions in waste management and sustainability. The forum also hosted engaging sessions such as the ‘Mayors’ Dialogue’ and ‘Case Clinic,’ fostering collaboration among urban leaders and stakeholders.
Prof. Amit Kapoor from the Institute for Competitiveness at Stanford University delivered a special address on implementing circularity at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, sharing insights from a study on sustainable waste management for large congregations.
The forum concluded with technical field visits, allowing delegates to witness sustainable urban practices firsthand at waste management facilities and key heritage sites in Jaipur.
