Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa: how they stack up on reusing waste

Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa: how they stack up on reusing waste

Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa: how they stack up on reusing waste

https://theconversation.com/brazil-russia-india-china-and-south-africa-how-they-stack-up-on-reusing-waste-278104

Publish Date: 2026-05-13 09:36:00

Source Domain: theconversation.com

  • Circular Economy Issues: The traditional “take, make, dispose” model has driven economic growth but has led to significant environmental damage.

  • Emerging Economies Focus: Circular economy practices are crucial for rapidly developing economies like those in the emerging Brics countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa).

  • Policy and Progress Analysis: Researchers reviewed policies and practices in these countries, highlighting China’s advanced circular economy framework, moderate progress in Brazil and India, and slower development in Russia and South Africa.

  • Waste Management Solutions: Each Brics country exhibits distinct circular economy initiatives, such as Brazil’s bioenergy, Russia’s industrial waste recycling, India’s urban mining, and China’s large-scale recycling programs.

  • Future Directions: To advance sustainable growth, Brics countries need to coordinate better across government levels, invest in green technologies, and provide incentives for businesses to adopt circular economy practices.

  • Opportunities for Innovation: Digital and sustainable technologies could foster new economic sectors and job creation focused on recycling and resource efficiency in Brics countries.