This is the 40th session of the ADB Circular Economy Webinar Series, after nearly three years of promoting circular economy innovations and solutions. This webinar also marks World Environment Day, which is celebrated every 5 June. This year's theme focuses on ending plastic pollution, with the Republic of Korea hosting the global event. The day will highlight the growing scientific evidence on the negative impacts of plastic pollution and the need for collective action, including through the anticipated Global Plastics Treaty. 

For this webinar, let's zero in on strengthening plastic waste management through digital solutions, especially by engaging women as key users. Drawing on primary research from Indonesia and Viet Nam, this session will discuss the importance of designing inclusive platforms that reflect women’s roles in addressing plastic pollution through household and community waste management practices and in the informal sector. The webinar will present highlights and lessons from the recently published ADB brief, Can Digital Technology Strengthen Inclusivity in Plastic Waste Management? Evidence from Indonesia and Viet Nam.

This event also serves as a lead up for the Circular Economy Forum 2025 happening on 17–18 June at ADB Headquarters in Manila and online via livestreaming. Don't forget to register!

Speaker 

Caterina Meloni | Founder and Gender Finance Advisor, Connecting Founders

Caterina is a gender finance specialist with 25 years of experience working at the crossroads of finance. She supports international finance institutions, development partners, and government bodies in integrating a gender and climate lens across finance and infrastructure programs in a way that is pragmatic, cost-effective, and relevant to local business sectors. 

Prior to founding Connecting Founders, Caterina worked for leading international development institutions, such as the World Bank and IFC, to design and execute projects in over 35 countries. She holds an M.A. in International Relations and Economics from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies. Caterina is an angel investor at Epic Angels, passionate about supporting female founders in Asia Pacific.