Environmentally sound management of wastes, and its responsible trade, is essential in mitigating climate change and promoting a circular economy. The waste management sector can play a vital role in climate mitigation through a multitude of actions. First, through direct GHG reductions from solid waste management and, second, indirectly through the effects of waste prevention, re-use and recycling. Waste recycling and resource recovery – which are at the core of a circular economy - offer potential GHG reductions in the magnitude of up to 20% of the global emissions. The side event will explore the role of international regulations and national actions in driving waste management and circular economies in order to respond to the climate crisis.