Big-Stream. A Framework for Digitisation in Africa's Circular Plastic Economy

Plastic materials are popular and in growing demand across the world because of their multifaceted functionality and versatile applications for domestic and industrial purposes. This further translates to an upshoot in the generation of plastic wastes as a consequence of the conventional linear plastic economy. A modern, regenerative circular economy for plastic materials, optimised by a range of relevant digital technologies, is proving to be a viable solution to the extant challenge of plastic waste management in the African continent. However, infrastructural gaps as well as the underdeveloped state of stakeholder preparedness towards the operationalisation of an effective circular plastic economy in sub-Saharan Africa lend urgency to the development of a holistic framework, linking together the relevant digital technologies, circular economy strategies as well as stakeholders involved. Drawing upon a range of studies and a review of existing frameworks exploring the interdisciplinary integration of digital tools towards a circular economy and global sustainability, this study adopts a system thinking approach in the design of a framework to help address highlighted issues. It demonstrates the usefulness of digital tools in obtaining efficiency and smooth operationalisation of the circular plastic economy and further suggests a shift from current unsustainable practices alongside spirited collaboration among relevant actors.