India has launched Cities Coalition for Circularity (C-3), a multi-nation alliance aimed at city-to-city collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and private sector partnerships for sustainable urban development. The initiative was announced during the 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific, held in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Additionally, a key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for CITIIS 2.0 was signed during the event, marking a milestone in India’s efforts to promote urban sustainability.
About Cities Coalition for Circularity (C-3)
- A multinational alliance to facilitate collaboration between cities in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Aims to address waste management challenges and resource efficiency through collective efforts.
- The Prime Minister of India proposed setting up a working group of member countries to finalize the coalition’s structure and operational framework.
12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific
- Established in 2009, the Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum promotes sustainable waste management, resource efficiency, and circular economy principles.
- The forum serves as a policy dialogue platform to tackle environmental challenges arising from rapid urbanization, resource depletion, and increasing waste generation.
- India reaffirmed its commitment to the 3R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) and circular economy, advocating for sustainable urban development.
- The Hanoi 3R Declaration (2013-2023) was a key milestone, setting 33 voluntary goals for transitioning toward a circular economy.
Key Highlights of MoU
- India proposed forming a working group to finalize the coalition’s structure and operational framework.
- Agreements worth ₹1,800 crore were signed, benefiting 18 cities across 14 states.
- These projects will serve as lighthouse models for urban sustainability.
What is CITIIS 2.0?
CITIIS 2.0 is a part of the Smart Cities Mission, aimed at integrated waste management and climate-focused urban reforms.
Duration: 2023 to 2027 (4 years).
Focus Areas:
- Sustainable Mobility
- Public Open Spaces
- Urban E-Governance and ICT
- Social and Organizational Innovation for Low-Income Settlements
CITIIS 2.0 builds on the successes of CITIIS 1.0, which was launched in 2018 as an urban transformation initiative.
Significance of Initiative
- Strengthens India’s leadership in sustainable urban development.
- Reinforces India’s commitment to the Pro-Planet People (P3) approach.
- Enhances global collaboration in circular economy principles and waste management.
- Creates scalable models for sustainable urban growth that can be replicated worldwide.