Global environmental degradation resulting from human activity is one of the most urgent issues facing this generation. The challenge of managing plastic waste puts the extent of this reality into sharp focus
Circular economy approaches are specifically seen as a promising way to address the global plastics challenge due to their emphasis on the entire value chain and positioning plastics as a material with recoverable value so that it is not disposed of after a short use.
The focus of this paper is on identifying the most effective pathways to facilitate a circular economy for plastics in Africa, which will benefit consumers and support the economic development of African nations. It reviews the state of play in three Africa countries - Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa - examining the production and consumption of plastic in these areas and addressing challenges of managing plastic waste and opportunities for a circular economy.