Waste Management for Environmentally Sustainable Cities: A Quadruple Helix Collaboration in Practice

Abstract

This paper discusses a sustainable waste management initiative in ASEAN nations, utilizing a unique Quadruple Helix model that includes an international organization as an active fourth actor. This collaboration among academia, government, industry, and the international organization focuses on strategic policy alignment, advanced waste management technologies, and project creation through an interactive multi-stakeholder knowledge-sharing digital platform. The project is leading to a significant reduction in carbon and methane emissions, mitigating approximately 6 million tons of CO₂ equivalent and creating around 1,300 green jobs. Nearly 4 million ASEAN citizens are benefiting from improved access to solid waste management services, enhancing their quality of life and environmental health. Universities play a crucial role by establishing the ASEAN-Korean Integrated Green Technology Platform (AKIGTP), which bridges next-generation research and practical applications. NTU’s contributions in advanced research, knowledge dissemination, and fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships were instrumental in addressing complex challenges and advancing innovation within the Quadruple Helix framework. Taken together, the project not only showcases the potential of the Quadruple Helix model in driving sustainable development but also sets a precedent for similar initiatives globally. This comprehensive approach ensures effective and sustainable solutions to municipal solid waste management challenges, promoting a resilient and environmentally conscious future for the ASEAN region.