OUR approach
Each year, over 2 billion tonnes of municipal and commercial waste are generated globally, and by 2050, this figure is expected to rise to 3.4 billion tonnes (Source: World Bank 2016).
As the global population increases, so do the challenges associated with escalating waste volumes. For instance, Africa‘s population is projected to double within the next 25 years, reaching approximately 2.5 billion people. This population surge will exacerbate environmental issues.
When managed correctly, waste can become a valuable resource. In Africa, an estimated 70 to 80 percent of waste is recyclable, with about half consisting of organic material suitable for composting and use as agricultural fertilizer. A smaller portion contains vital secondary raw materials that can be reintegrated into production processes.
Ideally, only non-reusable or non-reclaimable materials should end up in landfills. Recycling and composting not only recover resources and reduce landfill use but also lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, an organized waste economy encompassing collection, separation, and processing can create jobs locally and beyond.
Infrastructure waste is a significant issue in megacities, where rapid urbanization and dense populations put immense pressure on existing systems. Problems such as inadequate waste management infrastructure, insufficient recycling facilities, and inefficient waste collection services are common.
This often results in the accumulation of waste in public areas, illegal dumping, and overwhelmed landfills. Furthermore, the lack of modern waste processing technologies exacerbates pollution, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and poses serious health risks to residents.
Addressing infrastructure waste in megacities requires substantial investment in sustainable waste management systems, advanced recycling technologies, and effective policies to ensure the efficient handling and reduction of urban waste.
