Title : IPAT analysis of solid waste generation and treatment in Sub-Saharan Africa and its implication for circular economy advancement
Abstract:
Purpose: Improper solid waste management is a significant issue in sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. This study analyses solid waste generation and treatment in sub-Saharan Africa using the IPAT model, highlighting implications for circular economy advancement.
Design: The research design is based on a qualitative analysis of existing literature, using secondary data from various sources, including academic journals, reports from institutions and international organizations. The study examines the impact of population growth, affluence, and technology on solid waste generation and treatment in Sub-Saharan Africa, and explores the potential for waste-to-energy technologies and circular economy practices to address waste management challenges in the region.
Findings: Solid waste generation in sub-Saharan Africa is driven by population growth, urbanization, and changing consumption habits. The changing consumption habits is partly an effect of improved socioeconomic status. Improvement in socioeconomic status has evidently resulted in more waste generation. Waste generation is expected to triple to 516 million tons/year by 2050. The region’s capacity to manage the generated waste is low but gradually improving. The region's population could serve as a market for recycled products, and adopting waste-to-energy technology could bridge the energy gap, saving billions in future damages and fostering a more prosperous future through circular economy principles.
Implication: Sub-Saharan Africa's rapidly growing population, increasing affluence, and inadequate waste management technologies pose significant environmental, social, and economic challenges to sustainable development. The region's waste management challenges can be addressed by adopting sustainable waste management technologies, investing in waste management infrastructure, and promoting circular economy practices. By transitioning to a circular economy, Sub-Saharan Africa can create new business opportunities, jobs and economic growth while reducing waste generation and environmental pollution.
