2.3 Advancing sustainable solutions to reduce SUP in Africa:
Beyond current strategies
While it is commendable that several African countries have implemented
bans or levies on certain types of SUP, these measures alone are
insufficient to bring about lasting change. SUP waste still poses a
significant threat to the environment. Reducing plastic pollution in
Africa and other parts of the world requires a multifaceted and holistic
approach that encompasses various stakeholders and leverages innovative
solutions. Therefore, raising awareness and promoting education about
the environmental impact of plastic waste should be a priority in
Africa. Governments, NGOs, and the private sector should collaborate to
develop targeted campaigns that engage communities, schools, and
businesses in understanding the consequences of plastic pollution. For
instance, educational programs can be organized in schools to teach
children about the harmful effects of plastic waste on marine life and
the importance of recycling. Public awareness campaigns through
television, radio, and social media can also play a crucial role in
reaching a wider audience.
Furthermore, investing in research and development of eco-friendly
alternatives to SUP is crucial in Africa. Africa government should
support scientific innovation and entrepreneurship to develop viable
substitutes that are affordable, accessible, and locally produced. For
example, researchers can be given grants and other incentives to carry
out researches that will focus on creating biodegradable packaging
materials derived from agricultural waste, such as cassava or sugarcane.
Promoting the adoption of these sustainable alternatives, will
significantly reduce the demand for SUP.
Moreover, improving waste management systems is also paramount in
Africa. Many African countries face challenges in waste collection,
recycling infrastructure, and disposal. African governments should
allocate resources to enhance recycling facilities, establish
waste-to-energy plants, and incentivize waste management companies to
develop efficient and sustainable waste management practices.
Collaborating with international partners and sharing best practices can
accelerate progress in this area.
In addition, fostering collaboration between government, industry, and
civil society is vital. The private sector, including manufacturers,
retailers, and packaging companies, must take responsibility for the
lifecycle of their products and adopt environmentally friendly
practices. Governments can incentivize sustainable packaging and reward
businesses that implement recycling and waste reduction initiatives.
NGOs and community organizations can also play a significant role in
advocacy, education, and grassroots initiatives that promote sustainable
living. For instance, community-led initiatives can organize plastic
cleanup drives in coastal areas or promote the use of reusable bags
through local markets.
Lastly, regional cooperation and knowledge sharing can strengthen
efforts to combat plastic pollution. African countries can learn from
successful initiatives implemented in other regions and adapt them to
their specific contexts. By sharing experiences, lessons learned, and
best practices, Africa can accelerate progress and avoid reinventing the
wheel. Collaborative platforms, such as regional conferences or online
forums, can facilitate these exchanges and foster partnerships.
Moreover, the Plastic Treaty, set to be enacted in 2024, presents a
crucial opportunity for African countries to tackle plastic pollution
[24]. Therefore, it is crucial for African nations to prioritize
developing and implementing national strategic plans to ensure the
treaty’s objectives are achieved [24].