Unlocking value from waste: Which circular economy strategies for municipal solid waste management in North Africa?

Abstract

The excessive use of resources and inappropriate waste management pose a serious environmental threat, highlighting the need to adopt the circular economy strategies and strengthen the commitment of cities. The main objective of the study is to understand and analyze how waste management practices and strategies implemented by African municipalities promote sustainable benefits and value, while remaining consistent with a circular economy approach. The commitment of municipalities to the circular economy has attracted considerable media and academic interest. However, there is still a lack of empirical studies that shed light on ways to achieve this goal and identify the constraints that lead to failure. To fill this gap, this article draws on a large amount of data collected through interviews, document and report analysis, field visits, and meetings with stakeholders in four Moroccan cities. The study analyzes governance and waste management and valorization practices, examining municipal strategies for the circular economy. It also identifies obstacles to value creation in this area. The research emphasizes that, in order to overcome the various barriers and create value from waste, commitment is needed from citizens, municipalities, and delegated companies. This is based on strategies focusing on culture, policies, resources, management, innovation, and technology. Areas for further research and implications for leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders are also discussed.