The circular economy has become immensely important to ASEAN as the region intensifies its efforts to decouple economic growth from environmental footprints.

Given the diversity of ASEAN countries, there are different interpretations of the circular economy model as the concept is "localized" through various national practices. In Thailand, for example, the circular economy might be reflected through the "efficiency economy" local philosophy that is based on the fundamental principles of moderation, prudence, and social immunity by using knowledge and virtue to live more independently with contentment. Similarly, in Viet Nam, the values of tích trữ (thrift) and trân trọng thiên nhiên (respect for nature) share many common principles supporting the introduction of the circular economy in the country. In the Philippines, there are related common values called kapwa (shared responsibility), diskarte (resourcefulness), paggalang (respect for others), kalikasan (nature and the world), and utang na loob (gratitude and reciprocity) that align with the circular economy. Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore also have their interpretations based on local traditions.

This webinar will showcase the similarities and differences in circular economy approaches across the region. It will also examine how these values can complement and support the achievement of a circular economy.

Speakers

• Treesuvit Arriyavat, Project Manager, ASEAN Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform 
• Loraine Gatlabayan, Key Expert on Sustainable Consumption and Production Awareness Raising and Regional Partnership Building, SWITCH-Asia Policy Support Component
• Imelda Bacudo, Senior Advisor on Food and Agriculture, COP29
• Hong Quan Nguyen, Director, Institute for Circular Economy Development, Vietnam National University
• Montakarn Suvanatap Kittipaisalsilp, Associate Project Officer for Culture, UNESCO Regional Office (Bangkok)
• Souksaveuy Keotiamchanh, Founder, Zero Waste Laos
• Carlo Chen-Delantar, Co-Founder and Partner, Gobi-Core Philippines
• Seri Phongphit, Director, Community Enterprise Institute
• Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, Former Rector, International Islamic University Malaysia  
• Moderator: Anthony Pramualratana, Deputy Executive Director, ASEAN Centre for Sustainable Development Studies and Dialogue