Effect of Circular Economy Model on Sustainability of Plastic Waste Management Initiatives: a Case of Worldwide Fund for Nature Kenya Project in Mombasa County Kenya

Abstract

Plastic waste is a significant environmental issue, involving discarded plastic materials that often end up in landfills or oceans. This waste poses serious threats to wildlife, marine ecosystems, and human health due to its non-biodegradable nature. Effective management strategies, like recycling and reducing plastic use, are essential to mitigate these impacts and promote sustainability. This research aimed to evaluate the impact of the circular economy model on the sustainability of plastic waste management initiatives with a focus on the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) project in Mombasa County. During data collection questionnaires and key informant interviews were utilized. A stratified random sample of 198 respondents were selected from stakeholders participating in plastic waste management. These included: community-based organizations, nongovernmental organizations, waste recycling companies, and the county government of Mombasa were also included as study participants. Descriptive statistics were used to examine participant social demographic data. The association between dependent and independent variables was tested through regression analysis. A majority of the respondents were male (59.3%), had tertiary education (67.7%), had training in waste management (91.3%), and were employed by either a community-based organization (40.1%) or non-government organization (45.3%). Most respondents had ownership of waste management projects in their communities (84%) and were involved in decision-making (90%). Government policies were found to have a significant influence on the success of sustainable plastic waste management. Stakeholder contribution was noted to be important in sustainability of plastic management. A significant relationship (<0.001) was noted between the level of education, employer, employment status and the success of plastic refuse management. The engagement of investors and incorporating their input in decision making of projects is important for sustainability of plastic waste management initiatives. Operationalization of laws was required for proper plastic waste management. There is a need to review laws that prohibit investment in the plastic management waste industry.