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From polymers to microplastics
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This review examines Africa's plastic value chain from production and import through use and end-of-life phases, drawing on existing literature and online data resources. Although Africa currently has low plastic production and consumption relative to other regions, the chapter argues that a lifecycle perspective and digital tools are essential for accelerating the continent's transition to a circular plastic economy.
This chapter draws on the extant literature and online data resources to present an overview of the plastic value chain in Africa. It specifically explores production, import, use and end-of-life phases. It illustrates that even though production and consumption in Africa is currently low compared to other regions, current trends suggest a significant increase in the near future. Therefore, it argues that a life cycle perspective and understanding of the plastic value chain is fundamental to finding systemic solutions that will accelerate the transition to a circular plastic economy. This chapter provides insights on how digital tools and technologies can help minimise leakage and improve material flow across the value chain.
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Enabling a successful transition to a circular plastic economy in Africa
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This chapter examines efforts and barriers to transitioning toward a circular plastic economy in Africa, including infrastructure gaps, policy environments, and industry dynamics. Effective plastic circularity in African nations would significantly reduce the volume of plastic that ultimately reaches marine environments as microplastics.
Digital Innovations for a Circular Plastic Economy in Africa
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This paper is not about microplastics; it is a book examining digital innovations and circular economy approaches to plastic waste management in sub-Saharan Africa.
Introduction
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This book chapter introduces the concept of a circular plastic economy for sub-Saharan Africa, arguing that recycling-focused solutions need to be adapted to local infrastructure and waste management realities. Developing effective plastic waste management in this region is critical to reducing the ocean plastic pollution that Africa contributes.
Breaking the plastic cycle in Africa: Advancing sustainable solutions for single-use plastic reduction in marine ecosystem beyond current policies
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This paper reviews the scale of single-use plastic pollution across Africa and evaluates current policies for reducing plastic waste in marine ecosystems. The analysis calls for stronger and more targeted interventions given Africa's rapidly growing plastic waste output and limited recycling infrastructure.
Digitally enabled business models for a circular plastic economy in Africa
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Researchers explored how digital technologies are enabling circular economy business models for plastic waste management across African retailing and distribution systems. Drawing on focus group discussions and interviews with frontline organizations, the study examined the impact of digital innovations on plastic waste collection, sorting, and recycling. The findings highlight how digital tools can complement ecological goals by creating economic incentives for managing plastic waste in developing economies.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.