The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in joint collaboration with the Basel Convention Regional Centre for Basel Convention, organized a workshop on "Shaping a Sustainable and Digital Future – Pathway towards the Green Standards Week" which took place virtually on the 15 June 2023 from 14h00 - 17h00 ART / 19h00 - 22h00 CEST.
In recent years, digital transformation has become an essential reality, but there is often a perception that digitization and sustainability are at odds with each other. However, as the world continues to grapple with the climate crisis, it is becoming increasingly evident that sustainability and digital transformation can be mutually beneficial. This is particularly true in the Latin American region. Embracing sustainable digital transformation entails incorporating key elements such as effective e-waste management and embracing the principles of the circular economy. By integrating these components, we can accelerate progress towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Objectives:
The main objective of this event was to provide an international platform where all stakeholders can gather to share their experiences and identify common solutions and opportunities to accelerate their sustainability progress. Specifically the role of e-waste management, circular economy, and the value chain in Latin America was highlighted. This event took a closer look at the role played by policies and international standards in the process and how these facilitate positive change. Through high level panel discussions and interactive sessions, the event createed new opportunities for cooperation and collaboration.
Expected Outcomes:
- Providing a global platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration on the circular economy and value chain.
- Connecting and network with like-minded individuals, from policy makers, business leaders and industry experts, representatives from other UN agencies and more.
- Learning about real case examples in Latin America of successful implementation of international standards.
Target audience:This event was expected to be attended by top policymakers, business leaders and industry experts, representatives from around the world, other UN agencies, academia, civils society, other regional organizations, NGOs, private sector and other relevant stakeholders.
Programme
14:00 - 14:15 ART
19:00 - 19:15 CEST
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Opening Remarks
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Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of ITU-T Study Group Department, Telecommunication Standardization Bureau, ITU
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Leila Devia, Director of Basel Convention Regional Centre for South America
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Keira Ives-Keeler, Editor and Media Specialist, UNIDO
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Candela Nassi, Chief of Staff at Secretary of Environmental Control and Monitoring, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, Argentina
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14:15 - 14:45 ART
19:15 - 19:45 CEST
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Keynote presentation: Importance of International Standards for a Sustainable Digital Transformation
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Dominique Würges, Chairman ITU-T Study Group 5, Environment, EMF and Circular Economy:
"Towards a Sustainable Digital Transformation with International Standards" [Presentation]
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14:45 - 16:00 ART
19:45 - 21:00 CEST
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Session 1: Exploring the Benefits and Importance of a Global Digital Product Passport for ICT for Latin America
ICTs are increasingly pervasive in our daily lives and have significant environmental and social impacts, including through their production, use, and disposal. This session explored how solutions such as DPP can encourage eco-design and sustainability through standardizing information on a product’s reusability, reparability, upgradability.
Moderator:
Alberto Capra, International consultant, UN Environment & Basel Convention Regional Centre for South America
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Leandro Navarro, Co-rapporteur Question 7/5: E-waste, circular economy, and sustainable supply chain management: "Pasaporte digital de productos TIC: economía circular, transformación digital de productos (TIC), gestión de residuos electrónicos"
[Presentation] -
Francesca Cenni, Programme Management Officer, Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions Secretariat:
"Exploring the Benefits and Importance of a Global Digital Product Passport for ICT for Latin America and the Basel Convention" [Presentation]
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Patrick Lyon Moreno, President, E-waste LATAM: "E-Waste in the Latin-American region" [Presentation]
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16:00 - 16:55 ART
21:00 – 21:55 CEST
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Session 2: Sustainable e-waste management in Argentina and implementation of international standards
Argentina has embarked on a journey to address their e-waste challenge. The country has implemented policies and standards that aim to enhance their capacities to manage e-waste sustainably. This session was joined by representatives who will share their experiences in e-waste management in Argentina. The session waS ideal for prospective countries and cities looking to better manage their e-waste.
Moderator:
Reyna Ubeda, Project Officer, ITU-T
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Candela Nassi, Chief of Staff at Secretary of Environmental Control and Monitoring, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, Argentina
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Emiliano Castro, Technical Manager, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, Argentina:
"Proyecto: Residuos Electrónicos América Latina PREAL" [Presentation]
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Leila Devia, Director of Basel Convention Regional Centre for South America:
"Implementación De Estándares Internacionales De La Uit: En Ruta Hacia Una Economía Circular En Argentina Mediante La Gestión Sostenible De Raee" [Presentation]
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16:55 - 17:00 ART
21:55 – 22:00 CEST
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Closing remarks
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