‘Bridging Perspectives’: Advancing Solutions for Plastic Management

As part of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco's participation in the World Economic Forum held in Davos from 20 to 24 January, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation organised a high-level breakfast dedicated to solutions for tackling the challenges of plastic pollution.

The event, held on 24 January in partnership with UnaTerra, brought together 30 international leaders from major companies, with the aim of engaging in constructive dialogue as part of a global and collaborative approach. This event follows on from the actions taken by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation to promote and accelerate the development of a sustainable blue economy, in response to the major threats affecting the global ocean.

Among these threats, plastic pollution has become an increasingly pressing problem for ecosystems and human health. Global efforts, however, are still failing to address its devastating consequences. As international negotiations falter, the private sector, civil society and innovators have a key role to play in finding sustainable solutions to this major crisis.

In His opening speech HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco emphasized that: "The involvement of economic forces is essential to solving the major crisis posed by plastic. I believe this investment, in turn, represents a significant opportunity for innovation, development, and progress. (…) This is a vital threat, but we are not powerless against it: that is why we are here. To act, to mobilize the right means, and to rally goodwill. Because the means and the will exist."

What are the key challenges in tackling the plastic scourge today? How can large companies adopt a circular economy approach to reducing plastic waste, and what are the obstacles they face? What are the most promising innovative solutions? These are just some of the questions to which this meeting aimed to provide concrete answers, enabling participants to share their points of view, experiences and best practices and, where possible, foster fruitful collaborations.

It was an inspiring step toward uniting key players and driving impactful change because together, we have the tools, the will, and the opportunity to turn this crisis into a catalyst for innovation, progress, and lasting change.

The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation also took part in several events related to the blue economy, including Monaco House, organised by the Monaco Government's Attractiveness Department on 23 January.