Definitions matter: Including the socio-economic dimension as a critical component of SADC circular economy definitions

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Date

2022

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Academy of Science of South Africa

Abstract

Globally, scholars agree that there is a lack of clarity on the notion of the circular economy (CE) and a lack of consensus on a foundational definition of the term. Some definitions place greater emphasis on the socio-economic dimension of the CE than others. In Africa, notions of the CE are still evolving. This paper highlights the salient aspects of texts defining or informing the CE in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). In Africa, the transition to circularity is motivated by the need to stimulate job creation and income generation. At the same time, concern over mounting environmental impacts is increasing. Economic and population growth on the continent, continued urbanisation, and the resulting proliferation of municipal waste contribute to these economic, social and environmental challenges.

Description

Keywords

Circular economy, Socio-economic dimensions, Grey literature, Africa

Citation

Grobler, L. et al. (2022). Definitions matter: Including the socio-economic dimension as a critical component of SADC circular economy definitions. South African Journal of Science, 118, #12550. . https://doi. org/10.17159/sajs.2022/12550