During the just concluded AWWS conference, among the topics of discussion was green transition and the circular economy. United Nations Environmental program (UNEP) defines green economy as a macro- economic approach which focuses on investing in low carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive activities. Elsewhere, the circular economy has being defined as a model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible.
During this interactive and informative session, panelists had different views on this topic. John Mwendwa, Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Director, Coca Cola Beverages Africa on his take stated that sustainability should not be taken as a function but as a mission and ambition. Coca Cola is not just about refreshing Africa, it is also about making the Continent a better place. In his explanation, John said as a Company Coca Cola as achieved this by embedding sustainability initiatives in product design and production processes. This, they’ve done through using less material and ensuring that products are compatible with recycling processes. Additionally, the speaker highlighted that Coca Cola was moving towards the right trajectory in achieving zero waste not only at company level but also bringing in like-minded individuals.
Jane Ruto, Regional Business Development Manager of Geocycle, a waste management company under Bamburi Cement which turns waste into energy and recycled material using a unique industrial process called co–processing sees this innovative approach as the game charger recovering waste beyond the 3Rs.
Bonnie Mbithi, CEO, WEE CENTRE, says his company provides a safe resting place for electronic waste by offering a circular management model that entails refurbishing, repair, re- manufacturing and extending life span of E- waste. According to Bonnie, lack of capacity to treat waste in Africa is the main setback limiting green transition and the circular ecomony.
Michael Oelo of Regional organics, a company that collects organic waste to process organic fertilizers and insect based proteins says they are using circular economy to push for regenerative agriculture and help farmers be more profitable
The panelists had this to say in response to different questions asked.
Is Zero Waste Achievable?
Daniel Pannenholz of Taka Taka Solutions defining zero waste said it’s a circular economy which means nothing is wasted. He sees this as a complex discussion starting from product design, packaging, supply chain, levies, legislations and EPR schemes. Additionally, he sees a need to up- scale circular models and non- circular models to be circular. According to Daniel, there is a possibility of achieving zero waste however this will be in the long run, approximately 50- 100 years.
What are the quick wins we could have and what do we have in place that can lead us to Zero waste?
Mavji Varsani, CEO, Vintz Plastic agrees with Daniel that it’s a long journey that calls for collaborative efforts .We honestly don’t know how long it will take, giving right solutions will take time and resources .There are a lot of innovations locally and globally and we are in transition.
What can facilitate business in Waste Management?
Bonnie Mbithi, CEO, WEE CENTRE, sees innovation as key approach in facilitating businesses in waste management. Additionally, Bonnie stated government collaboration and having home grown solutions as a major win in promoting businesses in waste management.
Take on World Environment Day theme “Beat Plastic Pollution”
Among the panelists John Mwendwa, is not been optimistic but realistic on the fact that it’s possible to beat plastic pollution however it will take time. He calls for collaboration with thought leaders and embedding sustainability in production process and product design.
Janet sees the possibility and alludes to political goodwill where NEMA enforced choice editing by phasing out single use plastic bags and phasing in reusable shopping bags. She proposed some of the solutions such as buying cement in bulk to reduce packaging material pollution
Michael Oelo sees beating plastic pollution been difficult but there’s a possibility of averting plastic from the landfills. He proposes reuse, recycling and use of new and suitable ecosystem models
From this interactive session which provided forum to ignite and share ideas, it was evident that achieving a more circular economy cannot be achieved in isolation. It calls for a blend of ideas from multiple players in the sector to develop innovative business models and home-made solutions for advancing circularity.