Circular economy — the concept of reducing and reusing waste — could help the continent solve environmental challenges, according to experts during a panel discussion at the 2nd Next Einstein Forum Global Gathering held in Rwanda last month (26-28 March). African countries need to embrace circular economy to lessen waste production and pollution whilst promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable growth.
Ann Therese Ndong-Jatta, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, criticized policies and regulatory frameworks in the region, saying they do not promote circular economy. For instance, used cars imported into Africa continue to pollute the environment because of low implementation of environmental standards. Read more