South Africa took center stage in advancing environmental sustainability by hosting the 7th Global Forum of Cities for Circular Economy (GFCCE) workshop. The event, organized by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) in collaboration with the Centre for Science and Environment, convened in Johannesburg to champion sustainable waste management practices across Africa.
The two-day forum welcomed participants from 18 African nations, including Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe, focusing on enhancing South-South cooperation. With urbanization and environmental degradation posing challenges to the continent, the workshop aimed to build the capacity of officials and foster the adoption of circular economy principles.
Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, opened the forum by emphasizing South Africa’s efforts to integrate circular economy practices into policy frameworks. She highlighted key initiatives like the National Waste Management Strategy and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations, which shift waste management accountability from municipalities to producers, encouraging recycling and resource reuse.
“Our urban centers, particularly Johannesburg, face pressing challenges like diminishing landfill airspace,” Swarts said. She urged innovative solutions and collaborations to improve waste management and resource efficiency in cities.
The Deputy Minister underscored the need for partnerships among governments, private sectors, and civil society to drive the circular economy forward. “Collaboration is essential for creating green opportunities, reducing government expenditure, and transitioning to sustainable resource management practices,” Swarts remarked.
Since its launch in 2021, the GFCCE has expanded to 22 member states, with a growing focus on addressing the environmental footprint of cities. Urban areas consume 75% of natural resources and contribute 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making them a focal point for circular economy initiatives.
Swarts highlighted the urgency for cities to adopt sustainable practices as populations migrate to urban areas. Discussions at the forum revolved around reducing environmental footprints, enhancing resource resilience, and integrating circular economy principles into urban planning.
Key topics included:
- Economic Incentives: Implementing levies and taxes to encourage sustainable practices.
- Data Tools: Using monitoring systems to track and optimize resource use.
- Green Opportunities: Fostering innovation and job creation through recycling and reuse.
- Participants also explored the role of private-sector innovations and international cooperation in achieving a sustainable urban future.
The GFCCE workshop reaffirmed the collective commitment to achieving sustainability across African cities. With Johannesburg as a dynamic host, the event provided a platform for knowledge sharing and aligning regional strategies with global goals.
South Africa’s hosting of the GFCCE underscores its dedication to fostering sustainable waste management and a circular economy, charting a path toward a cleaner and greener future for the continent.