​The CounterMEASURE Final Stakeholder Conference was successfully held on 25 to 28 May 2020 virtually. It showcased important achievements of the CounterMEASURE project at its first phase and previewed second phase of CounterMEASURE implementation. The virtual conference highlighted key stories, accomplishments, and innovative solutions – even to the growing concern around the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.  Cumulatively, about 1,286 participants from about 58 countries in 5 continents attended the virtual conference. Participants were drawn from include policy makers, researchers, engineers, private sectors, and civil society groups. The conference streamed keynotes, 6 live sessions, workshop with breakout sessions, and press conference through interactive learning and insights sessions from experts. Highlights of the conference include catalyzing future action of CounterMEASURE 1 - reflecting how the power of data could be unleashed, engagement of media and citizenry to prevent plastic pollution in the region. Other highlights include movement to drive change towards stemming the tide; create more synergy between entities – intergovernmental and other institutions – to join the movement to beat plastic pollution; importance of recycling sector in the region – small scale especially the informal sector support and integration in the waste value chain. Recycling should be feasible and functional in local context; and ensuring appropriate recycling technology to be used for different plastic types/polymers.
For more details visit the Conference 2020 CounterMEASURE.