Launched in 2019, EPPIC attracted nearly 350 ideas from ASEAN countries, of which 12 outstanding teams received financial support, training and acceleration, helping to prevent around 3,500 tonnes of plastic from entering the environment.
Notable initiatives such as GreenJoy grass straws (Viet Nam), CIRAC recycling technology (Thailand), Siklus refill stations (Indonesia) and the TrashCash platform (the Philippines) demonstrate the power of innovation in promoting the circular economy.
Speaking at the workshop, Francesca Nardini, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Viet Nam, affirmed that the five-year journey had proven the value of regional cooperation in the fight against plastic waste.
Erlend Skutlaberg, First Secretary of the Norwegian Embassy, stressed that EPPIC is clear evidence of the effectiveness of innovation and multilateral cooperation in sustainable ocean management.
Nguyen Duc Toan, Director General of VASI, said that EPPIC not only aligns with the national strategy for sustainable marine economy but also affirms Viet Nam’s active role in regional cooperation. He emphasised the need to continue mobilising businesses, communities and international organisations to promote investment in circular solutions, while studying ocean financing mechanisms to reinvest in environmental protection and coastal livelihoods.
At the workshop, delegates also introduced SEA-MaP – an AI-integrated financial platform connecting businesses with investors – to expand opportunities for scaling up innovative solutions across ASEAN.
