Why Zero Waste is Essential to Climate Action and Delivering Real Solutions
WHAT: Climate advocates, researchers, youth leaders, and local government representatives will challenge the growing push for waste incineration and make the case for zero waste as a proven practical climate solution.
The press conference will present findings from a report examining 15 waste-to-energy incineration projects and proposals across 10 African countries, highlighting their environmental, financial, and public health risks. Speakers will also discuss the links between waste, methane, plastics, and fossil fuels; the need to redirect climate finance toward locally led zero waste solutions; and how cities can deliver practical alternatives.
WHEN: November 11, 2026 | 2:30–3:00 PM
WHERE: Press Conference Room 2, Area D4
Local room name: Press Conference Room Yunus Emre
SPEAKERS:
- Mariel Vilella, GAIA Climate Program Director
- Mohamed Kamal, Climate Action Network Arab World (CANAW)
- Shahriar Hossain, Government of Bangladesh
- Weyinmi Okotie, Executive Director, Green Knowledge Foundation (GKF)
- Jacob Johnson Attakpah, Zero Waste Director, Green Africa Youth Organization
MODERATOR: Yogi Tujuliarto, CNN Indonesia
KEY MESSAGE: Incineration is not climate action. Governments and climate financiers must move away from false solutions and invest in inclusive, locally led zero waste systems.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sonia Astudillo | Global Climate Communications Lead, GAIA
sonia@no-burn.org | +63 917 596 9286
Carissa Marnce | GAIA Africa, Communication Manager
carissa@no-burn.org | +27 76 934 6156