PLASTIC WASTE RECYCLING AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN MBARE, HARARE, ZIMBABWE

Abstract

This study examines the alternatives for recycling of plastic waste and gives a general overview of the main environmental issues related to plastic disposal. It gives a rundown of the amounts and sorts of plastics in the waste stream and furthermore the primary impacts of recycling on the plastic material itself, the environment and also the national economy. The two main types of recycling are mechanical and chemical recycling. The research also compares the methods of recycling which are already in use and selecting the best in a bid to save the environment from pollution. The study also seeks to discover the challenges and benefits associated with plastic waste recycling. Questionnaires, interviews and observations were used to conduct the study. Data was analysed through hand tallying in the form of tables, graphs and pie charts. From the main findings, there is a lot of plastic waste in Mbare (Harare) because of the shortage of bins and an ineffective waste collection system. However, the plastic waste collection system should be complimented by the Harare city council which should register waste collectors and recyclers for incentives by signing agreement contract terms with them. Mbare has become the most ideal urban area to develop a waste collection centre as plastic waste has become a major problem.  Article visualizations: