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].