ABSTRACT
SDG 11 and SDG 12 targets and indicators relevant to urban waste management need to be aligned for both goals to be successfully achieved. ‘Adequate final discharge …’ (Indicator 11.6.1) is not well defined and encourages waste disposal, rather than recycling (Indicator 12.5.1) and reduced consumption (Indicators 12.2.1 and 12.2.2). The inverted waste pyramid is presented as a means of addressing the demands of both SDG 11 and SDG 12. Waste policy and programmes from India, Brazil and Ireland (presented in Chapters 3–5) are used to identify where further gains are possible. A global transition to the circular economy, aided by the inverted waste hierarchy, will help countries achieve targets for SDG 11 and 12. Optimum waste management will also contribute to achieving SDG 13.
