Assessing the Impact of Circular Economy Practices on Global Waste Management Systems

Abstract

The enormous rate of urbanization, industrialization and unreasonable consumption positions severe pressure on global waste management systems as well as the exceedingly fast pace of pile-up of rubbish threatening a broke ecological balance. This research investigates the  Circular economy  (CE) practices as a constructive strategy to solve these problems. However, the issue is that our current linear waste management systems are extremely inefficient, having an overreliance on the use of landfilling and incineration for disposing of waste, leading to resource depletion and greenhouse gas emissions. This research aims to assess the effects of CE practices on waste reduction, resource efficiency and landfill diversion with a view towards understanding regional variability and the obstacles(s) and opportunities to adoption. The study adopts a mixed-methods perspective, combining qualitative data from stakeholder interviews and case studies with quantitative information concerning waste management performance. Highlights show that the CE practices decrease waste generation by 25–40%, boost recycling rates of up to 50–65%, and divert as much as 70–80% of waste away from landfills. The research still points to challenges including economic costs, gaps in policy and technology especially in the developing world. The results are closely aligned with global benchmarks and affirm the efficacy of CE practices. Finally the paper provides policy implications aimed at policymakers, industries and researchers observing that to promote faster adoption of CE practices there is an urgent need for coherent policies, technological innovation and public awareness. Combined, these results highlight how  CE  principles can transform waste management systems and support the pursuit of global sustainability goals.