Waste recovery project in Botswana | Knowledge Hub | Circle Economy Foundation
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Policy case
Waste recovery project in Botswana
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The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism of Botswana launched a waste recovery pilot project in the government enclave, Gaborone. The event was part of the activities held to mark commemoration of World Environment Day which was held on the 5th of June 2021. The Minister of Environment, Natural Resource Conservation and Tourism, Honorable Philda Kereng, in the launching event said the project is expected to create employment and develop a strong waste recycling industry in Botswana.

Problem

Currently, the waste recovery initiatives in Botswana are limited to production of waste paper, bottles, plastics, scrap metal recovery and transportation of the same to neighbouring countries where there are waste recycling plants hence creating jobs in those countries. Botswana needed a deliberate policy initiative to empower other citizens to derive benefits from the waste sector.

Solution

Waste paper and other recyclable waste if properly segregated from other waste in offices can provide opportunities for the establishment of small enterprises for reuse and recycling. Products that can be generated from waste paper recovery and reprocessing include the production of toilet paper, paper bags, paper cups and plates, ornaments, exercise books to mention but a few.

The Botswana Cabinet approved the Integrated Waste Management Policy in April 2021. This policy seeks to promote deriving value out of waste through its value chain. Treating waste as valuable resource will not only lead to improving environmental aesthetic, but will also have significant economic benefits as it will provide opportunities for waste based enterprise that will improve the livelihoods of local communities. The youth are more innovative and given an opportunity and a conducive environment, they can provide local solutions to our waste management challenges.

Outcome

The success of this pilot project will lead to the rollout to other institutions in the country's districts, towns and cities to make this a national programme.

The other objectives of waste paper segregation in the government enclave are:

• To create awareness on sustainable waste management practices.

• To encourage segregation at source at the workplace.

• To foster public, private sector collaboration on waste management.

• To test proof a concept on waste separation at source and circular economy.

Additional information

Photo on UNDP Botswana website.

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