Enhancing frameworks for utilising Sankey diagrams in modelling the water-energy nexus and circularity
Understanding the connection between water supply and energy consumption in a circular economy is crucial for managing the demands of these resources. Sankey diagrams have the potential to enhance the visualisation of resource flows. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding the effective use of Sankey diagrams to capture the water-energy nexus and circularity of […]
Circular Economy STI Strategy
South Africa has seen the impact of well-structured Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) strategies. The Waste RDI Roadmap (2015–2023) showed how targeted initiatives, supported by government funding, can strengthen research and innovation, build local capability, and guide sectors towards new opportunities. Building on this experience, the Circular Economy STI Strategy (2025) sets out a national […]
Recommendations for Scaling packaging reuse models in South Africa (Fact sheet)
Reuse-refill models that replace single-use packaging are key to addressing plastic pollution, with packaging making up most plastic leakage into waterways and oceans in South Africa (IUCN-EA-QUANTIS, 2020). This work forms part of the Circular City Labs initiative, funded by GIZ, through the “SA Circular Lab (SACiLa) South African Reusable Packaging Solutions in the Plastics […]
CEO Guide to the Circular Economy
GreenCape, , in partnership with Wesgro, has launched a practical guide to help CEOs build resilience and competitiveness through circular economy practices. The guide introduces a 7-step process for managing material shocks, showcases inspiring Cape Town case studies, and unpacks the implications of landfill bans for industry. It also provides access to 150+ funding opportunities, […]
#CircularEconomyExplained: Agriculture Edition
Did you know that South Africa’s agriculture sector employs 5% of the working population and contributes 3% of the country’s GDP? As a major producer and exporter of agricultural products, the circular economy provides South Africa with the opportunity to create a value-preserving agricultural sector that is regenerative, resilient, non-wasteful, and healthier for all. Explore […]
#CircularEconomyExplained: Water Edition
Did you know that South Africa is a water scarce country, with 98% of its water supply already allocated? Droughts and floods have negatively impacted lives, local agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, food prices, and exports. A circular economy transition assists South Africa with decoupling growth from water consumption, thereby addressing natural resource-security in support of socio-economic […]
#CircularEconomyExplained: Manufacturing Edition
Did you know that the manufacturing sector utilises 3% of the national water allocation & draws 52% of the national energy demand, more than 80% of which is sourced from coal-fired utilities. The manufacturing sector is centrally placed to unlock circular opportunities, by designing & producing for circularity of resources & adopting circular business models […]
#CircularEconomyExplained: Energy Edition
Did you know that 70% of South Africa’s primary energy consumption is from burning coal? This makes our energy sector highly resource intensive and given that up to 20% of generated energy experiences losses, makes it quite inefficient too. A circular energy sector promotes decarbonisation through the implementation of renewable energy technologies, while ensuring that […]
Mapping of WEEE Incentives in South Africa
The WEEE Incentive Mapping project was launched to identify and disseminate comprehensive information on the incentives, accelerators, incubators, and related support programs available in South Africa for the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) recycling sector. This research seeks to strengthen the WEEE industry by spotlighting actionable support initiatives that stakeholders can utilize. The project […]
#CircularEconomyExplained in Mobility
Did you know that about 77% of land freight in South Africa travels by road? This impacts productivity and competitiveness, as poor transport links and infrastructure increase the cost of doing business. Circular mobility shifts the focus from vehicles to users and goods. It’s about designing transport systems that reduce travel distances, costs, and times.