Value Addition of Recyclable Solid Waste Materials: The Case of Namibia

Abstract

Solid waste recycling is an important component of sustainable economic development. Research indicates that the growing need for raw materials and the difficulties associated with managing solid waste have led to the development of recycling as a rational strategy for advancing sustainability in the twenty-first century. While value-addition processes are highlighted in various research on solid waste management carried out in Namibia and other parts of southern Africa the focus has been on single waste streams, actors industry, waste reduction options or recommendations on recycling processing systems. This paper aims to highlight value chains of a variety of recyclable materials in the Namibian recycling industry an endeavour which may assist policymakers in understanding how the industry can contribute to sustainable industrial growth and employment creation. The study was a descriptive case study design, which was qualitative. Results indicate that in Namibia recycling industry processes a wide range of recyclable products such as plastic, paper and glass bottles. Except for plastic, the value addition of recovered materials was limited to the pre-processing stage. The full growth of the industry is still to be realised. Policy and intervention programs should promote more value addition in raw materials in the country as a whole considering the benefits to sustainable economic growth.