Diplomatic Network (Asia)’s monthly networking lunch saw the theme of zero-waste dominate discussions as members of the private and public sectors enjoyed each other’s company over food and wine.  

The lunch was held on Tuesday at Smoke & Pepper, a restaurant located on the 25th floor of the Andaz Singapore hotel.  

The lunch was attended by the Colombian ambassador to Singapore, His Excellency Manuel Solano; Bibiana Díaz, the general manager of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Singapore; Rémi Cesaro, the founder and executive director of waste company Zero Waste City; Shawn Wong, the managing director from concrete supplier Orange Concrete; and Ruth Louis, the assistant manager of Food & Beverage sales at hotel Andaz Singapore. 

Left to right: Andaz Singapore’s Ruth Louis; Rémi Cesaro from Zero Waste City; HE Manuel Solano; Bibiana Díaz from the Spanish Chamber of Commerce; and Shawn Wong from Orange Concrete.

The guests had the opportunity to listen to an enlightening presentation prepared and delivered by Cesaro on waste management. The guests also enjoyed a selection of red and white South African wines, sponsored by wine company South African Wine Cellar, as well as a succulent meal.

Dealing with waste is a daily problem that every world citizen, directly or indirectly, has to deal with. In his presentation, the founder of Zero Waste City gave an overview about the waste management practices in Singapore and drew parallels with neighbouring countries. 

He also highlighted the strategies that many cities have implemented to achieve zero-waste targets in a short time frame. 

In lieu of his insightful words, we at DNA would like to drive home the importance of integrating zero-waste practices into both the private and public spheres.  

We, as usual, took the opportunity to share our future plans with the distinguished guests, who also enjoyed the networking opportunities which arose from the event