The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is spearheading an initiative to combat the plastic pollution crisis by promoting the development of green skills, particularly within higher education institutions. The initiative recognizes that while technological solutions and policies are essential, a critical factor in solving the plastic crisis lies in training people with the right expertise to design and implement sustainable alternatives.

Plastic pollution remains a growing global threat, with over 400 million tonnes of plastic produced annually and less than 10% of it recycled. A major challenge is that many education systems are not keeping pace with the need for green, circular economy solutions. To address this, UNEP has partnered with regional academic institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean to incorporate green skills into university curricula, particularly for students in fields like engineering, materials science, and environmental management.

Juan Bello, Director of UNEP’s Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean, stresses the importance of aligning educational systems with environmental and industry needs. By doing so, the program aims to cultivate a new generation of professionals equipped to work within circular economy frameworks. This involves training students to rethink plastic design to make it more durable, reusable, and recyclable, and to minimize environmental leakage.

Through workshops, updated academic programs, and practical training, the initiative is empowering young people with the technical and entrepreneurial tools necessary to lead innovation in plastic alternatives and sustainable waste management systems. This approach not only contributes to reducing plastic pollution but also opens up new green job opportunities and supports broader climate and biodiversity goals.

Ultimately, UNEP’s initiative reflects a shift from a linear model of plastic consumption, where products are made, used, and discarded, to a circular model that emphasizes reuse, redesign, and responsible management. Building these green skills at scale is seen as a cornerstone in the transition to a more sustainable, pollution-free future.

Source: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)