Analysis of actors in the plastic waste value chain in Kampala, Mukono and Wakiso Districts Central Uganda

Abstract

Plastic recycling is a complex process involving several activities and the waste material undergoes multiple changes of ownership before reaching the consumer as a new product. The study sought to analyse the actors in the plastic waste value chain. The study was conducted in Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono Districts in central Uganda. The study applied exploratory, descriptive, and interpretive research designs with both qualitative and quantitative data collection approaches. Primary data was collected from 161 plastic waste value chain actors through the plastic waste actors’ participant survey. The study revealed three main actors in the plastic waste value chain including; collectors, bulkers, and recyclers. The plastic waste collectors are mostly male, with education level of up to primary, aged between 19 to 24 years, operating within Wakiso District, collecting plastic waste on full time as a source of income, indecently operating on a medium scale. These collect, clean and sort the plastic waste. The bulkers are mostly male and aged between 35 to 40 years, with education level of up to primary, operating in Wakiso and Kampala Districts. These often work in collaboration with recyclers, and operate on a medium scale. Their main roles after bulking include sorting plastic waste into various polymer materials, with some also sorting plastic waste according to colour. The recyclers are mostly male aged between 40 to 45 years, with education of up to a degree and above level, are mostly foreigners, operating as primary to secondary recyclers at large and medium scales. Within the plastic waste collectors, there is a weak linkage among the small independent collectors, small to medium collectors employed by cleaning service companies, large independent collectors, and large collectors who collaborate with bulkers. Among the bulkers, there is a weak horizontal linkage among small and medium independent bulkers, large independent bulkers, and large bulkers who have a partnership with recyclers. Recyclers also a strong horizontal linkage among themselves, with secondary recyclers primarily acting as the recipients of plastic waste materials. There is a weak vertical linkage among all actors across the plastic waste value chain. The plastic waste value chain actors are faced with barriers including; competition amongst themselves, high operational costs and low returns obtained from engaging in plastic waste enterprises. However, the study did not reveal the economic efficiency for the plastic waste value chain actors. A comprehensive study employing a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is essential to evaluate the business potential of engaging in the plastic waste value chain. This approach would provide detailed insights into the environmental, social, and economic impacts of plastic waste management activities, from collection to recycling.