Harnessing Digitization to Advance Sustainability - May 2024 – Monthly Update
One Planet network - 10YFP
The One Planet network implements the 10 Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production (10YFP).
Our latest One Planet Network newsletter coincides with a new UN Environment Programme report on how to build digital public infrastructure which supports environmental sustainability.
Experts highlight the necessity of integrating private and public solutions to bridge current gaps in digital public infrastructure (DPI). Innovative technologies, such as AI-driven solutions and digital product passports, are transforming public services, enhancing traceability, and promoting accountability within various sectors. By enabling smart design and manufacturing, fostering transparent supply chains, and empowering informed consumers, digital tools can drive resource efficiency, reduce waste, and promote Sustainable Production and Consumption. Digitalization is a vital sustainability tool that unlocks new possibilities, efficiencies, and opportunities with new approaches to help our society live and prosper sustainably.
This month, alongside updates from the Secretariat and across our programmes, we are spotlighting recent initiatives and developments related to how digitalization is advancing sustainable action.
Digital Public Infrastructure for Environmental Sustainability:
A new UN Environment Programme report 'Digital Public Infrastructure for Environmental Sustainability,' recently launched at the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) 20 High-Level Event 2024, underscores the importance of developing interconnected data exchange mechanisms for environmental sustainability. Developed over 18 months with contributions from over 40 international experts, the report highlights the necessity of blending private and public solutions to address current gaps in DPI. Sole reliance on private solutions risks data fragmentation and inadequate coverage of sustainability challenges. The report identifies six categories of technology innovations crucial for facilitating the flow of environmental information to stakeholders, offering insights into how DPI can support effective environmental sustainability decision-making.
‘AIntuition’: Unlocking Efficiency for Public Sector with Retrieval Augmented Generation Applications
The 'AIntuition' challenge has attracted 184 participants to develop intermediate-level Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) solutions for enhancing public services. This competition aims to create open-source tools for public institutions to efficiently retrieve relevant data from extensive document collections. Participants used open-source embedding models, databases, and frameworks to develop solutions that handle user queries and various document formats.
Traceability of e-waste and the use of digital product passports for ICT goods
On 30 May 2024, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Secretariat of the Basel Convention, and One Planet Network hosted a session titled "Traceability of E-Waste and the Use of Digital Product Passports for ICT Goods." The interactive session addressed the growing challenge of e-waste management, spotlighting the record 62 million tonnes produced in 2022, as reported by the UN's Global E-waste Monitor. It explored the role of digital product passports in enhancing traceability and accountability within the ICT sector. These passports provide a comprehensive digital record of a product's lifecycle, aiding stakeholders in tracking ICT goods from production to disposal. The session highlighted best practices, discussed international standards, and identified challenges in adopting digital product passports.
Unveiling AI's Transformative Power in the Postal Sector:
The recent UPU Innovation Challenge, held from May 29 to May 31, 2024, showcased the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the postal sector and beyond. Organized by the Universal Postal Union (UPU), in partnership with the European University Institute ’s Centre for a Digital Society (CDS) and supported by La Poste Groupe France, this event brought together data scientists and industry experts to develop AI-driven solutions. The One Planet Network participated as a challenge owner, focusing on exploring available solutions for data exchange infrastructure for Digital Product Passports to accelerate the circular economy around reverse logistics.
Updates from across the One Planet Network:
One Planet Network Forum 2024
The One Planet Network Forum is a platform for cooperation and thought leadership - convened this year with the Government of Brazil during the G20 - to accelerate the implementation of the Global Strategy on Sustainable Consumption and Production and SDG12. Applications are being sought for those interested in participating in-person, visit the One Planet Network website for more information.
Major expert survey marks European Green Deal as ‘resilient but facing challenges’:
A recent survey of over 300 sustainability experts from the EU and beyond reveals that the European Green Deal, the European Union’s comprehensive strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, remains resilient but faces significant challenges. The survey, conducted by the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP) , and supported by the One Planet Network, provides insights into the progress and future trajectory of the EU’s environmental policies ahead of the 2024 EU elections.
Updates from our programmes:
Sustainable Buildings and Construction
Advancing Circularity Through Procurement with the CityLoops Replication Package
Public procurement holds significant potential to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. The CityLoops replication package provides a rich resource of lessons learned, practical tools (including a CO2e calculator), and case studies to support public bodies in strategically leveraging procurement for circular outcomes. Gain insights on market engagement, overcoming organizational silos, designing effective circular procurement processes, and establishing measurable targets to drive environmental sustainability. For example, read from inspiring examples such as the Spanish city of Seville’s successfully integrated circular evaluation criteria into their water pipeline renovation tender, prioritizing waste reduction and the use of recycled materials.
Consumer Information for SCP
Taking forward Consumer Information leadership and action:
The Consumer Information Programme of the One Planet Network is excited to announce new co-leads for its working groups: the Akatu Institute for Working Group 1 on Product Sustainability Information, and HOP - Stop Planned Obsolescence alongside the World Resources Forum (WRFA) for Working Group 3 on Product Lifetime Extension. Akatu Institute, a Brazilian non-profit, focuses on promoting conscious consumption and aims to support companies and governments in providing transparent information to consumers. HOP, a French NGO, advocates for product durability and a universal right to repair, while WRFA, an international organization, works on extending the lifetime of healthcare devices and promoting sustainable resource use. Additionally, the Programme's Coordination Desk participated in UNEP’s technical meeting on Sustainable Food Systems, discussing policy convergence and collaboration opportunities. The Programme is also organizing a special Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Committee meeting on 10-11 July 2024 in Berlin to celebrate its 10-year anniversary with commemorative events. More details will be available on the Programme's website soon, highlighting the ongoing progress and innovative contributions within the One Planet Network.
Bringing Consumer Voices to the Plastics Treaty
Consumers International joined global leaders in Ottawa, Canada, for the fourth round of talks of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) in April 2024, to secure a global deal to #BeatPlasticPollution. Together with Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (India), Consumers International are advocating for a greater consumer voice in these negotiations for a lasting and meaningful deal. The organisation is pushing for essential policy and market shifts to reduce plastic pollution by 80%, supporting consumers and businesses in overcoming challenges related to affordability and accessibility. Consumers International has participated in promising discussions, observing keen interest from many member states in advancing discussions on incorporating the consumer perspective into the Plastics Treaty. Currently, Consumers International is collaborating with Latin American and Caribbean states, as well as the Asian Pacific consultation groups, to share its position and foster fruitful discussions.
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My Sustainable Living Challenge – 2024
Launching on 5 June, the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Sustainable Lifestyle Team will unveil registrations for ‘My Sustainable Living Challenge - 2024’. This innovative online platform offers an immersive 6-week journey into sustainable living, covering vital areas such as food, housing, and transportation. Participants will navigate interactive challenges and track progress through a virtual "treemagotchi", fostering sustainable habits. Available in English, Spanish, French, and Russian, the challenge encourages schools, organizations, and communities to form teams of up to 10 members, competing to earn points for sustainable actions. Starting 19 August, teams will vie for victory, leveraging social media to raise awareness and secure the title of champions. Schools and institutions can register up to 2 teams each via the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) official website.
Transparency and Traceability Systems for Plastics: Design and Practicability Considerations
Responding to requests from governments involved in the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) for a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution, Health and Environment Justice Support (HEJSupport) , the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation (SSNC), and groundWork South Africa have published an information paper. Titled Transparency and Traceability Systems for Plastics: Design and Practicability Considerations, the paper addresses delegates' concerns about achieving transparency and traceability of plastic chemicals. It underscores the practical benefits of these measures, essential control measures in the Plastics Treaty, focusing on the chemical composition of materials and products. By enabling informed decision-making throughout the product life cycle, these measures enhance consumer awareness, ensure safer plastic use, and facilitate the substitution of harmful substances, improving material cycles and design considerations, thus contributing to ongoing efforts to combat plastic pollution.
A New Guide by the TCO Certified Team on “How to Procure IT Products for the Circular Economy”
Organizations can reduce climate impact, e-waste levels and resource consumption by using IT products in a circular way. The TCO Certified team has released a new guide on "How to procure IT products for the circular economy," which aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the circular purchasing process. It offers valuable tips from purchasing experts on selecting the right supplier, a list of circular criteria to incorporate into policies and procurement documents, advice for buying and selling used products, and suggestions on KPIs that help measure climate impact and e-waste.
Sustainable Lifestyles & Education
Governments call for a Global Textiles Policy Dialogue
The clothing and textiles sector is crucial for global and local economies, generating millions of jobs and US $1.5 trillion in revenue, yet it significantly contributes to climate change, nature loss, and pollution. At UNEA-6, governments called on UNEP to facilitate a Global Textiles Policy Dialogue to promote circularity in the textile value chain. UNEP’s 2023 report, "Sustainability and Circularity in the Textile Value Chain - A Global Roadmap," highlights the need for global policy coordination. At a high-level UNEA-6 side event, Türkiye’s Deputy Minister of Trade and other leaders emphasized the importance of an inclusive policy dialogue for a climate-neutral and circular textile sector. Panellists agreed on the need for systemic changes and lifecycle-based policies, balancing sustainable consumption and production. The event also discussed the impacts of ultra-fast fashion, textile waste management, and the role of international cooperation.
Sustainable Public Procurement
Good practices on ecolabelling and sustainable public procurement
The "20 Good Practices" series highlights effective experiences in ecolabelling, sustainable public procurement, and their combined use, all demonstrating positive impacts on fostering sustainable consumption and production. These practices aim to facilitate global exchange by offering information and examples that entities from various countries and contexts can adopt to enhance the use of ecolabels and sustainable public procurement. Developed by the Working Group on Ecolabelling from the Consumer Information Programme under the One Planet network and the EcoAdvance project, these practices were collaboratively implemented by the German Cooperation for Development (GIZ), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the Oeko Institute. The initiative is funded by the Federal Ministry for Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV) and the International Climate Initiative (IKI).
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Sustainable Procurement
In the April newsletter we posted an article, U.S. Takes Steps to Maximize Government Purchase of Sustainable Products and Services. For clarification on the objectives and accomplishments of the two efforts described in the May newsletter, please reference the press releases “Biden-Harris Administration Takes Action to Cut PFAS from U.S. Government Custodial Contracts” and “Biden-Harris Administration Finalizes Rule to Maximize Federal Purchases of American-Made Sustainable Products and Services, Using EPA Purchasing Recommendations”.
Sustainable Tourism
"Food Waste Management in Tourism" webinar
Join us for the "Food Waste Management in Tourism" webinar, hosted by UN Tourism and the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme as part of the Commission expert group "Together for EU Tourism" (T4T), on 10 June 2024 from 10:00 to 12:00 (CET). This webinar aims to raise awareness about food waste in the tourism sector, provide actionable guidance, and showcase effective practices for reducing food waste. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the critical role of sustainable food management in achieving broader sustainability goals, and access tools, strategies, and best practices for implementing effective food waste reduction programs. Discussions will contribute to industry efforts to transition towards sustainable and regenerative food systems in tourism. Open to all tourism sector stakeholders, including hoteliers, tour operators, policymakers, and sustainability officers.
One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme at the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) - Antigua and Barbuda
At the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4), two significant events highlighted the crucial role of sustainable tourism in enhancing resilience and fostering sustainable development in SIDS. The event "Regenerative Tourism for Resilience: Policy, Practice and Finance" emphasized that the need to enhance tourism governance in SIDS for resilience and sustainability is of utmost importance in the face of escalating environmental vulnerabilities and additional setbacks such as inflation and higher travel costs. This event underscored policies that incentivize regenerative tourism, restore ecosystems, and unlock innovative financing mechanisms such as blue carbon initiatives. Meanwhile, "UN Actions to Advance Sustainable Development of SIDS through Tourism" focused on enhancing UN cooperation to transform the tourism sector by integrating circular economy principles, addressing the dual objectives of economic growth and environmental conservation. Both events stressed the importance of cohesive strategies and collaboration in promoting sustainable tourism as a pillar of resilience and development, while protecting the fragile ecosystems and cultural heritage of SIDS.
Global Tourism Plastics Initiative Workstream on Introduction of Reusable Alternatives
The Global Tourism Plastics Initiative (GTPI) has recently launched a targeted workstream focused on introducing reusable solutions as alternatives to unnecessary and problematic plastics in tourism business operations. This includes three collective trainings on identifying reusable solutions, titled "Global Tourism Plastics Initiative - Introduction of Reusable Alternatives" under the One Planet network. Within this framework, GTPI has provided in-depth bilateral support to seven GTPI signatories, ranging from SMEs to hotel chains and tour operators worldwide. As the next step in this workstream, GTPI will soon release a series of practical factsheets, decision trees, and case studies on the introduction of reuse models.
Webinar: Cities and Businesses Tackling the Tourism Plastic Crisis
WWF and the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative (GTPI) organized a webinar exploring how plastic pollution resulting from tourism can be addressed at the city level on 21st May 2024. This webinar – featuring 107 participants from 49 different countries - was organized within the framework of the WWF Plastic Smart Cities project. The tourism sector, including destinations and business, has an important role in contributing to the solution for plastic pollution. Tourism is responsible for up to 40% increase of marine litter in some areas like the Mediterranean and at the same time, plastic damages the aesthetic of tourist destinations resulting in major economic costs and losses in tourism-related incomes. The discussion was addressing the policies and initiatives that destinations and businesses can develop to keep plastic away from our sea and nature.