We use cookies to imporve your experience. By using our site, you consent to our cookie policy Learn more
arrow arrow_up breadcrumb-chevron-right breadcrumb-home dropdown-arrow-down loader GALogoWUNEP GALogo2018 GALogo2019 menu read-more-plus rrss-email rrss-facebook rrss-flickr rrss-instagram rrss-linkedin rrss-twitter rrss-vimeo rrss-youtube rrss_google_plus rrss_skype rrss_web pdf search share Completed In Process Ideas In Develpment Toogle Toogle Thumbnail View List View play close filter-collapse filter edit media_photo_library media_video_library graphics pictures videos collections next
About Maria Tsakona
Maria Tsakona
Senior Expert, Waste and Marine Litter (Consultant)
Phone: +47 404 06 132 and +30 6945353458

Bridging science, policy, and community action to fight the triple planetary crisis and establish a just and equitable circular economy for all.

As a Senior Expert in Waste and Marine Litter at GRID-Arendal, I am dedicated to advancing evidence-based, inclusive solutions that address pollution at its source. My work lies at the intersection of science, policy, and practice, supporting governments, NGOs, communities, and partners to tackle the triple planetary crisis—pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. I believe systemic change happens when knowledge and action are co-created across sectors and borders. With a focus on circular economy principles, gender equity, and just transition, I help build resilient systems that serve both people and the planet

What I Bring

I bring extensive expertise in waste and resource management, with a particular emphasis on plastic pollution and just transition, as well as effective stakeholder engagement at local, national, and international levels. My work focuses on turning complex environmental challenges into practical, inclusive, and impactful solutions. Over the years, I have designed and led capacity-building initiatives, translated scientific research into actionable strategies, managed diverse projects in waste and resource management, and fostered meaningful collaborations across sectors. What distinguishes my approach is the integration of rigorous technical analysis with an understanding of social dynamics, ensuring that the solutions I help develop are both evidence-based and equitable.

My Focus Areas

  • Leadership in Governance & Policy Shaping
  • Catalytic Knowledge & Insight Generation
  • Collaborative Facilitation & Transformative Engagement

In My Own Words

″We can no longer afford to treat waste as an afterthought. By shifting perspectives and centring equity and resilience, we can (re)establish systems that work for both people and the planet.″

Skills: Environmental policy analysis Gender and Waste Management Capacity building & multi-stakeholder engagement Circular economy & waste management planning Plastic Pollution Mitigation Systems thinking & just transition

Latest publications Maria's involved in

Latest activities Maria's involved in

Latest news

View all news