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Zero Waste Packaging: Local Solutions to a Global Problem


Compostable packaging. Image credit Sineo packaging
Compostable packaging. Image credit Sineo packaging

Packaging waste is a growing concern not just across Africa but globally. Each year, the world generates over 300 million tonnes of plastic waste, with a significant portion coming from single-use packaging. In Africa, where rapid urbanization and population growth are increasing consumption, plastic pollution is choking cities, contaminating waterways, and degrading farmland.


Different types of packaging waste dumped in the Little Akaki River
Different types of packaging waste dumped in the Little Akaki River

However, a wealth of traditional practices and innovative approaches already exist—especially in countries like Ethiopia—that offer sustainable, zero waste packaging solutions. These methods are not only environmentally friendly but also culturally rooted, affordable, and community-driven.


Traditional & Biodegradable Packaging

Enset & Banana LeavesFor centuries in Ethiopia, fresh foods like bread, meat, and spices have been wrapped in enset (false banana) leaves instead of plastic. These leaves are 100% biodegradable, naturally antibacterial, and widely available across the country’s southern and central regions.

Weaved Baskets Sifet baskets, traditionally handwoven from grass or bamboo, are used for carrying grains and injera. Agelgil—decorative woven containers lined with cotton—are still common for transporting food to social gatherings. These eliminate the need for plastic lunchboxes or bags.

Gourd & Clay ContainersIn rural areas, qebe naetsa (gourd containers) and clay pots are used to store butter, milk, and honey. These materials help keep contents cool and fresh without refrigeration or plastic, showcasing a smart, low-impact storage method.


Refillable & Returnable Systems

Beverage BottlesIn many African countries, glass bottles are routinely returned for refilling. Coca-Cola, St. George Beer, and other beverage companies have used this model for decades. Expanding this system to include milk, cooking oil, and juices could drastically cut down on plastic consumption.According to the UN Environment Programme, only 9% of plastic globally is recycled, making refillable systems an urgent necessity.


Upcycled & Reused Materials

Repurposed Flour & Rice BagsAfrican markets often use repurposed flour or sugar sacks to carry produce. This second life for plastic bags is both practical and reduces waste.

Wrapping with Fabric or PaperStreet vendors and small shopkeepers often wrap goods in newspaper or old clothes instead of single-use plastic—showing that zero-waste practices are already embedded in local behaviors.


Policy & Innovation for Sustainable Packaging

Plastic Bag Bans & RegulationsRwanda became the first African country to ban plastic bags in 2008. Kenya followed with partial restrictions in 2017. Expanding the policy and promoting viable alternatives could boost adoption across urban and rural areas.

African Startups & Tech examples

  • Zafree Papers in Ethiopia is developing tree-free paper and packaging using agricultural waste (https://zafreepaper.com/home).

  • Nature Pack  in south Africa are producing biodegradable hamburger, hotdog, wrap, deli meal, salad boxes, cookie boxes, chip cones, open trays and many more. (https://naturepack.co.za/)

  • GreenTech startups across Africa are exploring edible packaging options made from cassava, which dissolve in water and leave no residue (https://bioinnovate-africa.org/).

Community-Led Solutions

Women’s Cooperatives & Social EnterprisesIn many rural towns, women’s cooperatives are producing reusable cotton bags, sisal baskets, and traditional packaging from grass. Supporting these businesses doesn’t just reduce plastic use—it provides economic empowerment and employment for thousands of women.

Education & AwarenessZero waste packaging solutions can gain traction with more community-level education and visibility. Campaigns, school programs, and local government partnerships can encourage citizens to shift toward greener choices.


Conclusion: A Path Forward

Africa generates an estimated 12 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, much of which goes uncollected. But the region also holds rich cultural knowledge and fast-growing innovation that can lead the world in zero-waste packaging.

By scaling up traditional, community-led practices alongside modern biodegradable and refillable systems, countries can set an example for sustainable living rooted in both heritage and innovation.

We acknowledge that systems change is crucial for transitioning to zero-waste. Policy changes such as Kenya and Rwanda in addition to  industry transformation, as well as new business development providing biodegradable packaging alternatives underpins the change. Individuals/consumers are the catalyst for the system to change, with our actions and the decisions we make everyday on what to buy or not  buy,  collectively we have the power.  


Sources:

Abraha Negash (2018): Handling, Processing and Utilization Practices of Milk Products in Raya, the Southern Highlands of Tigray, Ethiopia. https://lupinepublishers.com/food-and-nutri-journal/fulltext/handling-processing-and-utilization-practices-of-milk-products-in-raya-the-southern-highlands-of-tigray-ethiopia.ID.000104.phpAccessed on 18/04/2025.


Eleanor Robinson (2023): All you need to know about enset - the “false banana” with a big impact. https://rippleeffect.org/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-enset. Accessed on 18/04/2025.


The Coca Cola Company (2023): Coca‑Cola North America Ramps Up Reusable Packaging Pilots. https://www.coca-colacompany.com/media-center/coca-cola-north-america-ramps-up-reusable-packaging-pilots?utm_source=chatgpt.com. Accessed on 18/04/2025.


CFL Advocates (2017): Tough Laws on Pollution: Kenya Bans Use of Plastic Bags.


Rwanda Mangament Environment Authority (2019): Guidelines on use of plastic bags.

 
 
 

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