Programme Support Intern – Zero Waste & Circular Economy

About the role

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) International Environmental Technology Centre in Osaka seeks two interns to support its zero‑waste and circular‑economy programmes for a six‑month, full‑time, unpaid internship.

Key responsibilities

• Research and summarise scientific information on zero‑waste solutions, including social, gender and economic aspects.
• Analyse national waste‑management policies and regulatory frameworks.
• Draft analytical briefs, policy reviews, research summaries and technical reports.
• Support meetings and events (note‑taking, travel coordination, visitor management).
• Map business opportunities and technology innovations for circularity.
• Assist in creating technical documentation, guidance tools and outreach materials.
• Populate and maintain digital knowledge‑sharing platforms.
• Collect, analyse and visualise data and indicators related to zero‑waste initiatives.

Required profile

• Enrolled in or recently completed a graduate programme, or in the final year of a bachelor’s degree.
• Field of study relevant to science, engineering, environmental management, sustainability, policy, chemistry, physics, logistics, supply chain or urban planning.
• Fluent in written and spoken English; knowledge of Japanese or another UN language is desirable.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and Outlook.
• Ability to conduct research, analyse policies and draft concise reports.