ICLEI Japan, together with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the City of Yokohama, convened the Inaugural Ceremony for the Asian Circular Cities Declaration (ACCD) Founding Cities in Bangkok on 25 March 2026. The ACCD provides a collaborative international framework to support cities across Asia in advancing circular economy practices and sustainable urban development.

During the ceremony, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Jakarta Capital Special Region formally announced their participation in the ACCD. In total, 21 founding cities—representing approximately 53.27 million people—were officially introduced, marking a significant milestone in advancing circular economy collaboration across Asia.

In his opening remarks, ICLEI Japan Chairperson Takemoto stated that the cities that have signed the declaration so far will be positioned as the “Founding Cities” of the ACCD. He announced that, starting with this ceremony, the initiative will move beyond the groundwork phase that has been built to date and transition into a new “action phase” in collaboration with these founding cities.

Furthermore, ICLEI Japan Chairperson Takemoto and Mayor Yamanaka of Yokohama confirmed their intention to jointly host the Asia-Pacific Circular Cities Forum (APCC Forum) in Yokohama from 2 to 4 September 2026. They also expressed their aim to establish a high-level platform that will further accelerate the activities of the ACCD during the forum.

In addition, Mayor Yamanaka proposed the following joint initiative, for which ICLEI Japan expressed its support.

Proposed Joint Initiatives by the City of Yokohama

1️⃣To develop an “ACCD Action Plan” that will guide the transition toward circular cities in Asia, reflecting regional characteristics and priorities.
2️⃣To compile the “Asia Circular Cities Action 50” (tentative title) as a mechanism to connect and scale best practices developed by ACCD cities, thereby strengthening policy capacity through mutual learning.
3️⃣To formulate policy recommendations directed at national governments and international organizations, to amplify the voices of Asian cities globally, and foster collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

ICLEI Japan will continue working together with the founding cities to advance the realization of circular cities across the region.

Additional information can be found on the City of Yokohama’s official website and in the ICLEI Japan press release (Japanese only).