Solid waste management is a critical theme in urban development, particularly in developing countries, and the World Bank is the largest donor in this sector. The publication , which compiles global data and trends on waste management, remains one of the most downloaded reports produced by the World Bank.
Japan has long been recognized for its advanced technologies and expertise in solid waste management. ľ¹ÏÓ°Ôº Tokyo Development Learning Center (TDLC) has introduced best practices from cities such as Fukuoka, Kitakyushu, and Yokohama through its knowledge and capacity-building programs.
On August 27, 2025, TDLC Program Officer Rieko Kubota was invited to speak at a seminar organized by the Japan Waste Research Foundation (JWRF). JWRF supports the international expansion of Japan¡¯s waste management and 3R (reduce, reuse, recycle) industries, while also conducting research and sharing knowledge with municipalities, private companies, and other stakeholders across Japan.
In her presentation, Kubota drew on her extensive experience with World Bank solid waste financing projects to explain the project preparation and loan approval process, along with emerging trends and needs in developing countries. She emphasized the importance of accurately assessing the current status and maturity of waste management systems in each country and of designing projects with sustainability in the future. The subsequent Q&A session featured active discussions with JWRF members and participants, creating a valuable opportunity for mutual learning and knowledge exchange.
The latest global insights and trends in solid waste management will be highlighted in the forthcoming What a Waste 3.0 report, scheduled for publication soon.