Alliance to End Plastic Waste Strengthens Network in Japan

Singapore, March 29, 2021 – The Alliance to End Plastic Waste (Alliance) continues to strengthen its network in Japan and the region, with the announcement of two new partnerships today. Japan Clean Ocean Material Alliance (CLOMA) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) join a network of 57 member companies and 15 partners, working with the Alliance to accelerate the development of projects to combat plastic pollution, especially across the Asia-Pacific region.

Jacob Duer, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Alliance, said: “In Japan, we have found a community of like-minded partners, like CLOMA and JICA, who share our vision and deep commitment to end plastic waste. These partnerships signal the start of collective action backed by the formidable knowledge, capability and access of our partners. By working together, we can speed up the discovery and development of practical solutions to help address plastic waste leakage in our oceans and the environment.  I look forward to a long and rewarding working relationship.”

Michitaka Sawada, Chairman of CLOMA, said: “To address the issue of marine plastics pollution, we must work quickly to implement a circular economy and to find solutions for regions like Asia and Africa. This means pursuing efforts such as material innovation, reducing the volume of plastic used and strengthening recycling systems, underpinned by strong public-private engagement. CLOMA seeks to utilise the technology and know-how of our member organisations and to create an international network of collaborators. Forming this partnership with the Alliance is of great significance to help us engage with a global network of partners.”

CLOMA brings together over 393 members, including top Japanese companies across the plastics value chain, to promote the development and introduction of solutions that will lead to a sustainable use of plastic products and reduction of plastic waste.

Yusuke Amano, Senior Vice President of JICA, said: “Many developing countries still lack the technologies and funding needed for implementing countermeasures against plastic waste, and JICA has been working with these countries to stop plastic waste flowing into the sea. In addition, to improve land-based waste management, it has helped by strengthening the capacity of those involved in waste management, promoting the introduction of alternative materials, and raising the awareness of the population. We believe this memorandum of understanding with the Alliance will lead to fruitful cooperation.”

JICA is an incorporated administrative agency in charge of administering Japan’s official development assistance (ODA). It is one of the world’s largest bilateral aid agencies supporting socioeconomic development in developing countries in different regions of the world.

Partnerships form the backbone of work at the Alliance. Together with companies and organisations, the Alliance has built a strong portfolio of 28 projects mainly in Southeast Asia, India and Africa. When fully implemented, these projects are forecast to divert 375,000 tonnes of plastic waste from the environment annually.