Waste is a universal issue that can have impacts on human health and livelihoods, as well as the economy and of course the environment.
A significant amount of the waste that people generate is discarded or burned, especially in low-income countries and so there is no doubt that more sustainable alternative solutions are needed.
It is imperative that the waste management industry explores innovative and sustainable solutions that prioritise both rapid growth and resilience. Promoting the 'circular economy' is key to encouraging a 'nothing wasted' mindset and to challenging those accepted, but damaging, norms around waste and waste management.
A 'Circular Economy' model creates more inclusive economic growth, thereby generating more job opportunities and fostering the beneficial environmental practices that are essential for long-term sustainability. It highlights the value of local production and supply, as well as the return of materials to the economy after use (rather than the use of virgin resources) to create income and added economic value.
But it is not only the responsibility of the corporate and production sector to tackle these challenges – consumers have a key role to play in managing their waste and their impact on the environment too.
Have you thought about making environmental best practice part of your home and daily habits? There are many things that you can do to make your home more eco-friendly. Below are some ideas of sustainable changes that you can easily adopt in 2023.
Detergents, preservatives, and foaming agents are common ingredients in mainstream cleaning products. After use, they can find their way into streams and rivers, causing pollution that damages biodiversity and impacts ecosystems. In addition to reducing the risk of exposure to toxic chemicals, switching to products containing sustainably grown or raised ingredients helps protect the environment.
You can also easily make your own natural cleaners by mixing vinegar, lemon juice and bicarbonate of soda to create more affordable, sustainable alternatives to manufactured cleaning chemicals.
To limit the impact of waste on the environment, buy biodegradable products made from non-synthetic ingredients. They dissolve due to contact with bacteria and fungi, causing no harm to the environment. Examples include bamboo toothbrushes, recycled toilet paper, natural deodorant etc.
Set up different containers for different types of waste – e.g., recycling bins for paper, plastic, and soft drink cans. Sorted and separated waste is much easier to recover and recycle, and less likely to end up in landfill. While this is an age-old practice, as South Africans we are still not very good at it – especially its offtake. So, if you do this already, perhaps invest in a recycling collection service to ensure your recycled materials go where they should to make a real impact.
Approximately 10.3 million tonnes of food and beverages which account for 34.3% of all locally produced food, are wasted each year, according to the Department of Science and Innovation and the CSIR.
You can limit your household food waste by portioning your meals reasonably, only buying what you need and composting raw food waste to make fertiliser for your plants (including an organic vegetable garden if you have space). By making better choices, you can reduce your ecological impact without having to compromise on your quality of life. And, if you consider the cost of food – this truly has a dual purpose – saving the planet and your budget!
Overall, a circular economy plays a crucial role in addressing the triple planetary threat of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Our ability to keep resources in the loop for longer will minimize greenhouse gas emissions caused by the energy needed to make products. In a nutshell, the choices we make in our households determine whether we can continue to enjoy a prosperous life on a healthy planet with a strong and sustainable economy.