India launches multi-nation alliance for collaboration on sustainable development, Pg 10

Cities Coalition for Circularity (C3)

• India launched C3, a multi-nation alliance for city-to-city collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and public-private partnerships in urban sustainability.
• Aim: To provide a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to discuss waste management and resource efficiency.

India’s Pro-Planet People (P3) Approach

• PM Narendra Modi emphasized the role of
  • 3R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) for sustainable urban development.
  • Circular economy as a model for improving resource efficiency.
• Proposal to form a working group to finalize the structure and operational framework of the coalition.

Key Agreements & Investments

• MoU for CITIIS 2.0 (City Investments to Innovate, Integrate, and Sustain) signed at the launch in Jaipur.
• ₹1,800 crore investment announced, benefiting 18 cities across 14 states as lighthouse projects.

Regional & Global Context

• Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum (Asia-Pacific), launched in 2009, promotes:
  • Sustainable waste management
  • Resource efficiency
  • Circular economy initiatives
• Hanoi 3R Declaration (2013-2023): Established 33 voluntary goals for transitioning towards a resource-efficient economy.

Analysis & Way Forward

• Urban sustainability is crucial for economic growth and environmental protection.
• C3’s success depends on knowledge-sharing, funding mechanisms, and local-level implementation.
• Encouraging private sector involvement and global partnerships can enhance the effectiveness of circular economy practices.

Mains Mock Question:

"Discuss the significance of the Cities Coalition for Circularity (C3) in promoting sustainable urban development. How can India lead in the global circular economy transition?"