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Lilongwe, Malawi, 16th August, 2024 – WASTE Advisers, a leading NGO in Malawi, has embarked on a waste-management initiative in the capital city, Lilongwe, whose aim is to foster a circular economy.The organization, with funding support from the European Union, is rolling out over 80 sets of waste separation bins across the city’s markets.
As is common with most African countries, the project comes at a crucial time for Malawi, as the country grapples with increasing waste generation. According to the World Bank, Malawi generates approximately 0.5 kg of waste per capita daily, amounting to over 9,000 tons of waste produced nationally each day. With a population growth rate of 2.69% annually, the waste management challenge is set to intensify in the coming years.
The initiative, which has garnered support from the Lilongwe City Council, aims to promote waste separation at source. Markets in areas such as Nchesi, Nsungwi, Ngwenya, and Area-10 are among the beneficiaries of this eco-friendly endeavor. This targeted approach is crucial, as markets are significant contributors to urban waste. A study by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) indicates that in many African cities, markets can generate up to 30% of the total municipal solid waste.
The newly installed bins are color-coded for easy identification: green bins are designated for organic waste, while red bins are for inorganic waste. This simple yet effective system enables market-goers and vendors to segregate their waste efficiently, paving the way for more sustainable waste management practices.
WASTE Advisers emphasizes the potential for recycling and repurposing the separated waste. Organic waste collected in the green bins can be transformed into compost manure, contributing to agricultural sustainability. This is particularly important in Malawi, where agriculture accounts for about 30% of the GDP and employs about 80% of the workforce, according to the World Bank.
Meanwhile, inorganic waste from the red bins opens up opportunities for creative reuse. In an inspiring example of waste repurposing, WASTE Advisers has partnered with ArtMalawi to produce school desks from HDPE plastics, demonstrating the practical applications of proper waste management in supporting education infrastructure.
The potential impact of such initiatives is substantial. The World Economic Forum reports that effective waste management and recycling could reduce global carbon emissions by up to 20%. Moreover, transitioning to a circular economy could generate $4.5 trillion in economic benefits globally by 2030.
This initiative aligns with WASTE Advisers’ broader mission of developing sustainable systems for liquid and solid waste management across Malawi. Since its establishment in 2014, the organization has successfully managed over €6 million worth of projects and consultancies, implementing innovative solutions in cities including Blantyre, Zomba, Mangochi, Liwonde, and Chikwawa.
The project in Lilongwe is part of a growing trend across Africa. The African Development Bank reports that several countries on the continent are making strides in waste management, with Rwanda leading the way by banning plastic bags in 2008 and achieving an 85% recycling rate in its capital, Kigali.
As Lilongwe takes this crucial step towards improved waste management, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate actively in the waste separation efforts. The success of this project could serve as a model for other cities in Malawi and beyond, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable urban environment.
The initiative in Lilongwe represents a small but significant step in addressing Malawi’s waste management challenges. As the country continues to develop, such innovative approaches will be crucial in ensuring sustainable urban growth and environmental protection.
For those interested in following the progress of this initiative and other projects by WASTE Advisers, follow their social media platforms:
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@wasteadvisers2525
FACEBOOK: https://web.facebook.com/WASTEAdvisersMW
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/waste-advisers-malawi/…
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wasteadvisersmw/
Good morning am in Kenya, I a waste management proposal, with a dream of building a company which will be dealing with waste products, for manufacturing goods, and others to be recycled,.
I have work on for every single plan, but due to finances instability I can’t manage to reach out my dream to see environment clean . I request support from individuals or NGO or companies who deal with waste management and environmental care
Do give me support, or any investors to come and buy my projects ideas .
Targeting companies in my projects
1. Building and construction
2.water treatment
3. Agriculture
4. Biogas plant
These are companies which am aiming to have in kenya.. so that environment will be good and smart
Thank you for your time
Good work Malawi people, your land is really amazing