The study focused on how each country is responding to rising levels of waste, environmental pressures and the need for more sustainable systems.
The circular economy model promotes the reuse, repair and recycling of materials, moving away from a linear process where products are produced, used and discarded. The approach aims to reduce waste and extend the life cycle of resources.
Researcher Aifani Confidence Tahulela said the concept encourages a reconsideration of how materials are used, including recycling items such as plastic bottles rather than discarding them. Tahulela said this approach is relevant for African countries, where growing waste volumes place pressure on municipal systems and infrastructure.
The study found that China has the highest recycling rate among the countries analysed, at about 38%, followed by Brazil at 29% and India at 24%. Russia and SA recorded lower rates of approximately 14% and 12%.
Tahulela said China’s progress reflects coordinated policy implementation and structured waste management systems. The country has introduced measures such as separating waste at source, using different categories for recycling, composting and landfill disposal. Recyclable materials are collected separately, while organic waste is processed for uses such as biogas.
The study notes that China’s system operates under national coordination, with consistent enforcement across regions. This approach reduces fragmentation between national and local authorities.
Tahulela said other countries face challenges linked to infrastructure, policy coordination and implementation. In some cases, waste management systems remain uneven, affecting recycling rates and resource recovery.
The study also highlighted the scale of the challenge, noting that BRICS countries represent a large share of the global population and economic activity, contributing to higher levels of waste production.
Tahulela said the research aimed to identify approaches that can be adapted across countries, particularly for improving waste management systems and addressing environmental challenges.
–ChannelAfrica–
