Development of a Taxonomy for ADB’s Circular Economy Activities and Indicators for Tracking Progress

The presentation explained how dynamic systems modeling was applied to support circular economy strategies by simulating policy impacts, infrastructure planning, and regional coordination. It introduced modeling paradigms such as system dynamics, agent-based, and hybrid approaches, highlighting their use in predicting long-term outcomes and optimizing investments. Case studies demonstrated applications in waste management and recycling policy, showing how scenario analysis and iterative refinement improved decision-making.

Aligning Circular Economy Goals and International Commitments

The presentation discussed how ADB could align circular economy (CE) goals with international commitments such as the Paris Agreement, Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and upcoming Global Plastics Treaty. It outlined the rationale for integrating CE into treaty implementation, proposed frameworks and regional action plans, and highlighted strategies for mainstreaming CE in ADB operations through policy reforms, financing, capacity building, and private sector engagement.

James Alden

Keywords

James focuses on catalyzing the scaling of 10 million metric tons of alternative fiber capacity in India. He has 20 years of experience in agricultural technology, energy efficiency, clean technology, and business sustainability, and has been involved in the build, growth, and sale of multiple businesses in the clean tech space. He has occupied a series of senior roles in startup organizations over the last 20 years, most recently as the CEO of Oreka Solutions, an insect feed additive business.