KEY POINTS
- Community-based recycling organizations in Zimbabwe have increased fourfold since 2019.
- The government has launched the Zero Waste Management Programme to address waste issues.
- Investments in waste-to-energy projects are converting waste into renewable energy.
Zimbabwe is taking bold steps to tackle its waste management challenges. As the nation advances waste management practices, its systems adhere to worldwide sustainability objectives through new waste-to-energy solutions and localized community recycling activities.
These efforts highlight the growing importance of environmental responsibility in fostering economic growth and public health.
Community-based recycling initiatives gain momentum
In recent years, Zimbabwe has witnessed a significant rise in community-driven recycling efforts. The number of community-based recycling organizations has quadrupled, increasing from 50 in 2019 to 200 in 2023.
The groups currently manage 15 percent of national plastic waste generation while providing self-sustaining income sources to numerous residents.
Government launches Zero Waste Management Programme
In September 2024, the Zimbabwean government introduced the Zero Waste Management Programme during a city-wide clean-up campaign.
The program targets essential waste control matters through community-based education about waste prevention, reuse, and recycling methods.
As part of the program, local authorities receive direction to build thorough environmental plans alongside enforcement capabilities to control waste output.
Investment in waste-to-energy projects
Renewable energy production and waste management complexities in Zimbabwe are being addressed through newly developed waste-to-energy initiatives.
The Pomona Waste To Energy Power Station in Harare is a notable example.
Once operational, the energy plant will receive 1,000 tonnes of daily waste to produce 22 megawatts of electricity that will feed into the national power system.
Adoption of innovative organic waste recycling methods
Organic waste recycling approaches are experiencing increasing popularity throughout Zimbabwe.
For instance, some farmers have turned to maggot farming, using black soldier fly larvae to decompose organic waste.
The system generates profitable animal feed and valuable compost for soil from commercial organic waste while resolving both waste management and agricultural deficiencies sustainably.
Development of national policies for chemical and waste management
The Zimbabwean government is implementing a three-year project to enhance the country’s management of chemicals and waste.
The project aims to create extensive waste policies and robust institutional structures which will advance sustainable national waste management across Zimbabwe.
The combined array of waste management initiatives aligns with environmental sustainability goals producing benefits both for the national economy and nature preservation.
