The need to move away from today’s ‘take, make, waste’ linear economy was already evident in Latin America and the Caribbean even before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and is now more relevant than ever. The region now has an opportunity to build a new wave of development and prosperity based on a circular economy - one that benefits society, business and the environment and tackles the root causes of global challenges such as biodiversity loss, and pollution and climate change. The Regional Coalition on Circular Economy was announced today during a virtual side event to the XXII Meeting of the Forum of Ministers of Environment of the region. It will create a common vision for a circular economy transition in Latin America and the Caribbean and provide a platform for cross-sectoral collaboration and knowledge exchange to accelerate implementation.

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is committed to achieving the transition to a circular economy globally, which requires unprecedented collaboration at all levels. That is why we are delighted to announce the launch of a regional coalition that will create an ambitious common vision for a circular economy transition in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as integrating and accelerating regional efforts to achieve it.

- Luísa Santiago, Latin America Lead - Ellen MacArthur Foundation