By Rabiatu Adamu Saleh

World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5th, is a global celebration and call to action for environmental protection. It’s a day dedicated to raising awareness about pressing environmental issues and inspiring collective action to build a sustainable future. As an African, I believe that environmental issues often receive insufficient attention within Africa, despite their significant contribution to the ongoing climate crisis. This blog focuses on Africa, a continent often associated with vast deserts, yet surprisingly rich in biodiversity and capable of remarkable resilience. It explores Africa’s unique environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution, and highlights the potential for sustainable solutions that can benefit the entire continent.

Africa is often stereotyped as a vast, arid landscape, dominated by the Sahara Desert. While this is a significant part of the continent’s geography, Africa also boasts incredible biodiversity and diverse ecosystems. From the lush rainforests of the Congo Basin to the vibrant savannah, the continent harbors unique plant and animal life. The resilience of these ecosystems, even in harsh conditions, demonstrates Africa’s potential for sustainable development. The presence of hardy, drought-resistant plants, coupled with the potential of renewable energy sources, underscores the continent’s unique capabilities.

 

Why Africa Should Tackle Plastic Pollution

Analysis indicates that plastic waste is escalating at an unprecedented rate across Africa, surpassing other regions globally. Currently, plastic waste enough to cover a football pitch is openly discarded or incinerated in sub-Saharan Africa every minute, according to the charity Tearfund. If this trajectory persists without intervention, projections suggest the region could generate approximately 116 million tonnes of plastic annually by 2060, representing a six-fold increase from the 18 million tonnes recorded in 2019.

Reports show that the lack of adequate waste management infrastructure in many areas leads to plastic waste accumulating in landfills, oceans, and ecosystems. This has severe consequences for human health, animal life, and the environment. Plastic pollution can lead to the contamination of water sources, impacting public health and increasing the risk of disease.

For example, a report by the World Economic Forum – “Microplastics Everywhere: Are We Facing a New Health Crisis?” – highlights how microplastics are now pervasive in the environment, from remote oceans to urban centres, and have been detected in air, water, and even the food chain. While the full environmental and health impacts remain unclear, the report emphasises the possibility of microplastics increasing the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, and even death.

Beyond the human health impacts, marine animals often mistake plastic debris for food, leading to starvation, injury, and death. Land animals also suffer from entanglement and ingestion of plastic waste. Meanwhile, plastic pollution degrades soil quality, contaminates water sources, and disrupts natural habitats. This has a cascading effect on the entire ecosystem, impacting agriculture, biodiversity, and overall environmental health.

 

The Plastic Pollution Crisis in Africa

The problem is multifaceted. Firstly, rapid urbanization, coupled with a lack of robust waste management systems, contributes significantly to the accumulation of plastic waste.

Cultural norms also play a role, as single-use plastics such as plastic bags, bottles, and packaging are deeply embedded in daily life due to their affordability and convenience. These items are often preferred for carrying goods or as disposable household items, making them a cultural norm rather than an exception.

There is also limited awareness or cultural emphasis on recycling and waste segregation. Disposing of plastics openly or burning them may be viewed as acceptable or even necessary due to lack of alternatives or infrastructure, perpetuating a cycle of improper disposal. In certain areas, traditional packaging materials have been replaced by plastics, which are perceived as modern and efficient, further entrenching plastic use in daily routines.

Finally, economic factors contribute significantly to plastic pollution. Many urban and rural areas lack reliable waste collection and recycling systems. As a result, communities often resort to open dumping or burning plastics, which are inexpensive but environmentally harmful practices.

The low cost and widespread availability of plastics make them the default choice for consumers and small businesses. Without affordable alternatives, there is little economic incentive to reduce plastic use or invest in sustainable practices. Recycling is often conducted informally, with low incentives from formal systems. This limits the development of efficient recycling industries and discourages investment in sustainable waste management solutions. Industries that produce or rely on plastic packaging and products are significant sources of employment and income, creating economic dependencies that hinder efforts to reduce plastic consumption.

Addressing these cultural and economic factors requires culturally sensitive education campaigns, policies that incentivize sustainable practices, investment in waste management infrastructure, and the development of affordable alternatives to plastics. Integrating local customs and economic realities is important for designing effective, sustainable interventions to combat plastic pollution in Africa.

 

Sustainable Solutions for Plastic Pollution in Africa

Investing in waste collection, sorting, and recycling facilities is crucial for effective waste management. Such investments include appropriate infrastructure in urban and rural areas, as well as education and community involvement initiatives that empower people to make well-informed choices. Encouraging the use of biodegradable and compostable materials is also vital, helping to cut down on landfill and create jobs in sectors dedicated to reducing reliance on plastic.

Governments must implement effective policies that restrict single-use plastics, incentivize recycling, and hold polluters accountable, ensuring clear regulations and rigorous enforcement. Delivering financial support for sustainable projects is also fundamental to their long-term viability and success. Finally, sharing best practices and technology among African nations and with international partners can accelerate progress.

Imagine a rural community in East Africa. Instead of relying on single-use plastic bags for farming, the community learns about biodegradable alternatives. Local artisans create baskets and containers from locally sourced materials. A community-based recycling center is established, allowing residents to sort and sell recyclable materials. This model not only reduces plastic waste but also creates economic opportunities and empowers the community.

Africa’s environmental future is not predetermined by its arid regions. The continent possesses a rich tapestry of ecosystems and a resilient population. By embracing sustainable solutions, Africa can overcome the plastic pollution crisis and create a greener, more prosperous future. World Environment Day is a call for collective action, and Africa, with its unique blend of challenges and potential, can be a beacon of hope for sustainable development globally. The solutions are not merely environmental; they are economic and social, creating a win-win for Africa and the world.

Top image by mali maeder

Other images by Rabiatu Adamu Saleh

Note:  This article gives the views of the author/academic featured and does not necessarily represent the views of the Global Development Institute as a whole.

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