UNIDO today announced the launch of the *Reducing Single-Use Plastics in Egypt: Mapping Study of Alternatives to Single-Use Plastics*, a pivotal report developed under the project “Supporting the Promotion of Circular Economy Practices in the Single-Use Plastic Value Chain.” This initiative, funded by the Government of Japan, provides a roadmap for stakeholders to transition Egypt’s plastics sector toward sustainability, mitigating environmental impacts such as marine pollution and ecosystem degradation.
Egypt consumes approximately 5 million tonnes of plastics annually, with PET, PE, and PP accounting for 87% of waste. The study, coordinated by Nile University and informed by consultations with the Ministry of Environment, industry leaders, and NGOs, evaluates global best practices alongside local challenges. It highlights opportunities in bio-based materials, refill systems, and policy frameworks like extended producer responsibility (EPR) and deposit return schemes (DRS) to enhance recycling rates—currently at 52%—and foster economic benefits, including job creation and greenhouse gas reductions of up to 88% through recycled content.
The research incorporates consumer surveys using the Kano Model, revealing high public awareness and willingness to adopt sustainable alternatives, alongside expert foresight exercises projecting a 57% drop in plastic bag consumption by 2030 and 86% by 2050, with biodegradable materials rising to 20% of the market.
“This mapping study represents a critical step in building Egypt’s capacity for a circular plastics economy. By identifying feasible alternatives and addressing policy gaps, we empower the private sector, government, and consumers to reduce single-use plastics and align with global sustainability goals,” said Matthias Pfaff, UNIDO Project Manager. (Paraphrased from project coordination acknowledgements in the report.)
“Collaborating with UNIDO and international partners allows us to integrate innovative solutions into Egypt’s environmental strategy, promoting reusable models and recycled materials to protect our ecosystems and drive green growth,” noted representatives from Egypt’s Ministry of Environment during validation workshops.
“As a key academic partner, Nile University is committed to translating research into actionable insights. This study underscores the potential for business model innovations like reverse logistics to transform the SUP value chain, creating resilient and inclusive opportunities,” stated Asmaa Ahmed, Nile University Coordinator.
The study details high-impact alternatives across time horizons:
Short-term (1-5 years): Concentration strategies, lightweight packaging, and improved SUP waste management to achieve quick reductions in virgin plastic use.
Mid-term (5-15 years): Adoption of rPET and rHDPE via mechanical recycling, refill-at-home systems, and DRS for high-collection rates (up to 90% globally).
Long-term (>15 years): Home-compostable bioplastics, chemical recycling, and zero-waste stores, supported by R&D and infrastructure investments.
Recommendations emphasize public-private partnerships (PPPs), regulatory enhancements like EPR mandates and thin-plastic bans, and awareness campaigns to boost consumer acceptance. The report projects that implementing these could limit virgin plastic to 44% of usage by 2050, while increasing recycling to 63%.
