Istanbul: The Zero Waste Forum continued in Istanbul on Saturday, assembling global experts and innovators to engage in discussions focused on critical topics such as food waste, circular fashion, and the integration of artificial intelligence in sustainable waste management solutions.

According to Anadolu Agency, the second day of the forum features a Ministerial-Level Roundtable Meeting on Zero Waste, highlighting the commitment of international leaders to this pressing global issue. Turkish first lady Emine Erdogan, chair of the UN High-Level Advisory Council on Zero Waste, delivered the opening remarks, setting the stage for a series of important discussions. The session also included a presentation by Jose Manuel Moller, the deputy chair of the council, further emphasizing the forum's focus on collaborative efforts to combat waste.

The meeting is co-chaired by UN-Habitat Executive Director Anaclaudia Rossbach, who on the first day of the forum announced the opening of a UN-Habitat office in Istanbul. Rossbach emphasized the organization's commitment to zero waste solutions and strengthening its work related to the circular economy, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices in urban development.

Set to conclude on Sunday, the forum has successfully gathered leaders, experts, and academics from around the world, as well as 118 international partner organizations, including prominent entities such as the UN, UN-Habitat, UN Environment Program, and the UN Development Program. The event is organized by the Zero Waste Foundation, which was launched under the patronage of Emine Erdogan, in collaboration with Turkey's Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change Ministry, and the Agriculture and Forestry Ministry.