#CircularEconomyExplained Human Settlements Illustration
South Africa’s 20 most energy-intensive cities & towns accounted for 38% of the country’s total energy consumption & 29% of the country’s emissions in 2017. Circular human settlements encompass more than just sustainable architecture; they involve designing entire communities that are tailored to meet the needs of their inhabitants, creating a holistic & integrated living […]
CSIR Technical Report: Mobility and the Circular Economy
South Africa’s mobility sector contributes 8% to the nation’s GDP but faces sustainability challenges due to a heavy reliance on road transport. This study shows how the decline of rail infrastructure has led to 84.3% of land freight being transported by road, increasing logistics costs, congestion, and road deterioration. Public transport is also under strain, […]
CSIR Technical Report: Human Settlements and the Circular Economy
This study examines the potential of circular economy principles in human settlement development in South Africa. It reviews existing development pathways and assesses alternative approaches through a circular economy lens. Seventeen circular economy interventions (CEIs) were evaluated to determine their suitability for South Africa, the sector’s capacity to adopt them, and their current level of […]
Eco-Industrial Parks South Africa Knowledge Portal
Industrial spaces are dynamic ecosystems involving multiple stakeholders and functions, from production to compliance. In South Africa, transitioning these spaces into sustainable industrial hubs follows the Eco-Industrial Park (EIP) approach, based on the International EIP Framework developed by UNIDO, GIZ, and the World Bank. This systems-based approach integrates governance, operations, services, and reporting to enhance […]
 Closing the Loop: Circular Economy Masterclass
Circular South Africa (CSA), in collaboration with the University of Johannesburg Process, Energy and Environmental Technology Station (UJ PEETS), recently hosted an introductory webinar on the circular economy. The session sparked meaningful discussions, drawing strong engagement from participants eager to explore sustainable business and resource management practices. The webinar provided a comprehensive introduction to circular […]
South Africa’s Policy Framework: Does it support a just Circular Economy transition?
The transition to a circular economy presents opportunities for sustainable development in South Africa. JUST2CE, a Horizon2020-funded project, examines the technical, geopolitical, and social factors influencing a responsible and inclusive shift. The African Circular Economy Network (ACEN), a consortium member, explores whether national policies support this transition, identifying gaps and areas for improvement. Circular South […]
Science, Technology and Innovation for a Circular Economy
The South African government recognises the circular economy as a driver of economic growth and industrial development. Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) support this transition by enabling sustainable, low-carbon solutions. More than waste management, the circular economy helps manage resources, mitigate risks, and unlock opportunities aligned with the National Development Plan 2030. It is an […]
#CircularEconomyExplained Mining Illustration
#CircularEconomyExplained: Mining Edition Mining plays a vital role in South Africa’s economy, yet its resource-intensive processes lead to significant waste and environmental impact. Embracing circular practices can drive efficiency, reduce pollution, and unlock new economic opportunities.
#CircularEconomyExplained Illustration
Introducing our #CircularEconomyExplained series! South Africa is rich in natural resources, yet more than 20% of extracted resources are exported for beneficiation abroad. This reliance on exports poses a developmental risk—our resources are depleted locally, but the economic benefits aren’t equally shared, deepening inequality. The current linear economy is extractive, wasteful, and inefficient—costing our economy, […]
South African Hydrogen Society Roadmap
The Hydrogen Society Roadmap (HSRM) is a national framework designed to integrate hydrogen technologies across various sectors of South Africa’s economy. Aligned with the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, the HSRM aims to drive economic recovery while advancing the transition to a hydrogen-powered society. By leveraging South Africa’s abundant renewable resources, mineral wealth, and expertise, […]