The 3rd ASEZ WAO Global Forum Held at the United Nations Headquarters

On July 16, ASEZ WAO—the Young Adult Worker Volunteer Group of the World Mission Society Church of God—held the 3rd ASEZ WAO Global Forum at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA. The forum provided a platform to discuss measures to tackle plastic pollution, a growing global concern. Around 550 participants attended the event, including ASEZ WAO members, scholars, government officials, business leaders, UN diplomats from various countries, and citizens.

In his opening address, ASEZ WAO President Kim Yong-Gap expressed his hope that “today’s forum will serve as a meaningful step toward a happy future free from plastic pollution.” Varsha Ramratan, LL.M. and First Secretary, Suriname to the United Nations, remarked in her congratulatory speech, “Only through collective action can we effectively address plastic pollution and create a healthy environment for future generations.”

The keynote speech was delivered by Steven Raga, New York Assemblymember. He stated, “It is deeply meaningful that global leaders and young people have gathered here to seek solutions to environmental challenges. This forum is both timely and essential for our generation.”

Following the keynote, a panel discussion was held under the theme “Global Leadership for Plastic Reduction: Policy, Sustainability, and Collaborative Practice.” Three experts from academia, industry, and civil society shared their insights.

Dr. Leonardo Trasande, Professor at New York University’s School of Global Public Health, emphasized, “Plastics increase the risk of serious diseases, and the rise in critical illnesses leads to enormous social costs,” highlighting the urgent need to reduce plastic pollution. Christian Kaufholz, Head of Community Engagement, GAP – WEF, noted, “The international plastic-related agreements currently being pursued began as grassroots movements led by youth and volunteer organizations.” He stressed that young people and local communities must take the lead in addressing plastic pollution together.

ASEZ WAO members who listened to the discussion reflected deeply on the importance of ending plastic pollution and reaffirmed their direction for future action. Attendees from various sectors also voiced their support for ASEZ WAO’s efforts. H.E. Odo Tevi, UN Ambassador, Vanuatu, said, “It’s inspiring to see young people so dedicated to environmental issues. The entire community should join their efforts.” Bhim Adhikari, Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Senior Program Specialist, added, “Public awareness is crucial for plastic policies to move in the right direction. I hope this forum continues to raise awareness about plastic issues.”

Since its founding, ASEZ WAO has consistently carried out plastic reduction initiatives, including the “No More GPGP (Great Pacific Garbage Patch)” project. This year, it launched the “Plastic Free 2040” campaign, aiming to end plastic pollution by 2040. To strengthen global partnerships in tackling this pressing issue, ASEZ WAO participated in the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) and held discussions with key figures such as Cynthia Samuel-Olonjuwon, UN Special Representative of the International Labour Organization (ILO); Harold Agyeman, Permanent Representative of Ghana to the UN; and Mathew Hunter, Partnership Lead at the UN Youth Office.