Istanbul: Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment Manal Awad participated in the opening session of the 'Zero Waste as a Global Responsibility' forum, held in Istanbul from October 17 to 19. The event was attended by Turkey's First Lady and honorary president of the Zero Waste Foundation Emine Erdogan, according to a statement by the Environment Ministry.According to State Information Service Egypt, the Acting Minister highlighted the importance of the gathering as an international platform for promoting cooperation and sharing best practices in waste management. Awad stated that the forum includes several sessions addressing themes related to the shift toward sustainable production and consumption systems. One session explores the concept of zero waste, which extends beyond recycling to redesigning systems to reduce waste at its source.Awad further explained that another session focuses on policy frameworks to guide governments in transitioning to zero-waste societies, emphasizin g the need to balance environmental goals with economic capacities. A third session, titled 'Cities and the Shift to a Circular Economy,' examines the role of urban centers in leading the transition through innovative waste management and reuse policies. It will highlight success stories from cities that have turned environmental challenges into development opportunities.Additionally, a session on 'Financing the Circular Economy' will address the role of sustainable finance in enabling the circular transition, exploring models that align investor interests with environmental and social impact. Awad emphasized that Egypt's participation underscores the country's commitment to aligning with global sustainability efforts. She noted that the government, under President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, is pursuing a circular economy strategy as part of its broader green development goals.The opening session was also attended by Turkish ministers of environment, agriculture and forestry, the CEO of the Zero Waste Foundati on, a UN representative, and the head of UN-Habitat, along with officials from local governments, public institutions, and international organizations.