Conference focusing on the sustainable integration of resource efficiency and cleaner production (RECP) in Azerbaijan.

On September 26, 2023, a conference addressing the sustainable integration of resource efficiency and cleaner production (RECP) in Azerbaijan, under the umbrella of the “EU4Environment” project, was held in Baku. Representatives from various entities including the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the Agency for the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMBDA), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), industry development associations, scientific bodies, and experts attended the event. The activities of the project align with the goals outlined in the “Socio-economic Development Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022 – 2026”. Under the agenda titled “Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socioeconomic Development”, efforts are directed towards fostering a sustainable, growing, and competitive economy. Mr. Umud AGhazadeh, Deputy Head of the Department of Cooperation with International Organizations at the Ministry of Economic Affairs, highlighted projects and initiatives related to transitioning to a circular economy, adopting clean technologies, promoting and utilizing renewable energy sources, as well as initiatives for recycling and cleaning up polluted areas. Recognizing the finite nature of Earth’s resources, achieving resource efficiency becomes imperative for sustaining economic growth. Resource Efficiency and Cleaner Production (RECP) becomes not only essential for economic expansion but also serves as a significant catalyst for enhancing industry competitiveness, job creation, and fostering innovation through investments in recycling and resource recovery. Azerbaijan’s commitment to innovative management principles forms the cornerstone of its journey towards sustainable transformation. Within this context, sustainable water management emerges as a critical factor in achieving sustainable land use. Mr. Rafig Verdiyev, Deputy Head of the Department of Environmental Policy at the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, emphasized that Azerbaijan’s water policy is geared towards ensuring water availability and quality in line with international standards, while also emphasizing ecological health, environmental preservation, efficient water resource utilization, and fostering global water cooperation. The conference provided a forum to discuss UNIDO’s strategy for mitigating industry’s environmental impact through measures aimed at enhancing both economic and environmental facets within companies. As part of the project, the RECP methodology was implemented in 15 companies, focusing on resource and water efficiency tailored to the specific needs of these enterprises, along with initiatives addressing energy efficiency, energy audits, safe chemical management, and waste reduction in production processes.