By Benard I. Odoh, Professor of Applied Geophysics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
As the world grapples with mounting environmental challenges, industries are increasingly recognizing the importance of shifting from a linear economy—where raw materials are extracted, used, and discarded—to a circular one that emphasizes recycling, reusing, and minimizing waste. At the heart of this change is innovative raw material management, which is crucial for a sustainable future, especially in a resource-rich country like Nigeria. By rethinking how we manage and use raw materials, we can not only protect our environment but also unlock new economic opportunities.
This shift is particularly important for Nigeria, where sustainable raw material management could drive economic growth, reduce environmental degradation, and create jobs. Below, we explore some of the innovative practices in raw material management that are paving the way for a more sustainable, circular economy.
- Recycled Raw Materials in Production
One of the cornerstones of the circular economy is the use of recycled raw materials in production. Recycling reduces the need for virgin raw materials, conserves energy, and cuts costs. Globally, the steel industry has embraced recycling on a massive scale, with more than 630 million metric tons of steel being recycled annually. The use of scrap steel, instead of new ore, saves 75% of the energy typically required for production. Similarly, recycling aluminum saves up to 95% of the energy needed to produce it from raw bauxite.
In Nigeria, companies like Lafarge Africa Plc have adopted recycling practices by using industrial by-products, such as fly ash and slag, in cement production. This approach not only reduces the need for virgin raw materials but also lowers CO2 emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change. The fashion industry is also seeing a rise in sustainability, with local designers in Lagos incorporating recycled fabrics into their collections, reducing textile waste while maintaining style and quality.
In the automotive sector, car manufacturers are increasingly turning to recycled plastic and metal parts. This approach not only saves raw materials but also addresses the growing issue of electronic waste. According to the Global E-Waste Monitor, 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste were generated globally in 2019, much of which contained valuable metals that could be recovered and reused.
- Industrial Symbiosis: Waste as a Resource
Industrial symbiosis, where the waste or by-products of one industry serve as the raw materials for another, is another critical component of the circular economy. This model mirrors natural ecosystems, where every output has a purpose and waste is minimized.
A prime example of industrial symbiosis is the Kalundborg Symbiosis in Denmark, where companies collaborate to exchange waste materials, energy, and water, creating a circular network of resource efficiency. Excess heat from a power plant is used to heat homes, while by-products from an oil refinery are used by a pharmaceutical company, creating a highly efficient industrial ecosystem.
Closer to home, Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, has become a model of circular economy practices in Africa. Through the Kigali Industrial Park, businesses collaborate to reduce waste and maximize resource efficiency. For example, one company’s waste plastic is used by another company to manufacture construction materials, while organic waste is transformed into biogas, providing clean energy for local households. These initiatives have significantly reduced landfill waste, improved energy efficiency, and created new jobs in the recycling and waste management sectors.
Nigeria has the potential to follow this model by fostering industrial symbiosis across key sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. For instance, the agro-processing industry could transform cassava peels, which are generated in large quantities, into animal feed or biofuels. With 2 million metric tons of cassava peels produced annually, this represents a massive opportunity to reduce waste and create value from what would otherwise be discarded.
- Biomaterials and Sustainable Sourcing
Biomaterials, which are derived from renewable resources like plants, algae, and agricultural waste, are revolutionizing the way we think about raw materials. These sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based products are gaining traction in industries such as packaging, construction, and textiles.
Globally, the market for biomaterials is expected to grow to $125.6 billion by 2025, driven by increased demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Companies like Coca-Cola are leading the charge with innovations like the PlantBottle, which is made from up to 30% plant-based materials and is fully recyclable. By switching to bioplastics, companies can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, lowering both their carbon footprint and their waste output.
In Nigeria, the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST) is exploring ways to use agricultural waste, such as corn husks and palm kernel shells, to create biomaterials for the leather industry. This not only reduces waste but also supports the agricultural sector by adding value to by-products that would otherwise go unused. Sustainable sourcing is also gaining ground, with more Nigerian companies committing to responsible sourcing of raw materials, ensuring that they are obtained in ways that protect the environment and support local communities.
Additionally, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has certified over 2.1 million hectares of forest in West Africa, ensuring that timber used in industries such as construction and furniture-making is harvested sustainably. By promoting responsible sourcing, Nigeria can protect its valuable natural resources while ensuring that raw materials remain available for future generations.
The Kigali Example: A Circular Economy Success Story
Kigali, Rwanda, stands out as a leading example of a city embracing circular economy principles to manage its raw materials. The Kigali Green City Project, which includes sustainable housing, green energy initiatives, and circular waste management systems, is a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainability. By promoting the reuse of materials, from plastics to metals, Kigali has significantly reduced its dependence on imported raw materials while creating a thriving local recycling economy.
In collaboration with global organizations like the World Bank, Kigali has also pioneered innovations in waste-to-energy projects, where organic waste is converted into biogas, providing affordable and clean energy for households. These efforts not only reduce the environmental impact of waste but also help the city achieve energy self-sufficiency, demonstrating how a circular approach to raw materials can transform entire economies.
Conclusion
The future of raw material management lies in innovation. By adopting practices such as recycling, industrial symbiosis, and the use of biomaterials, Nigeria can position itself as a leader in the circular economy. These innovative approaches not only reduce waste and preserve natural resources but also open up new opportunities for economic growth and job creation.
As we look to the future, both the public and private sectors must work together to prioritize sustainable raw material management. With bold initiatives, Nigeria can follow in the footsteps of cities like Kigali, becoming a model for circular economy practices in Africa and beyond.
Benard I. Odoh is a Professor of Applied Geophysics at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. He writes a weekly column on the future of raw materials and sustainable development in Nigeria.
