Evaluating the Impact of Circular Economy Practices on ReducingPlastic Waste in Urban Developing Regions

Abstract

This study evaluated the impact of circular economy practices on reducing plastic waste in urban
developing regions. The increasing accumulation of plastic waste in rapidly urbanizing environments
has intensified environmental degradation, public health risks, and economic inefficiencies. A
descriptive survey research design was employed, using a structured instrument titled Circular
Economy and Plastic Waste Reduction Questionnaire (CE-PWRQ). A total population of 580 wastemanagement stakeholders was identified from three metropolitan councils, out of which a sample of
234 respondents was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Of the 234 questionnaires
administered, 219 were correctly completed and returned. Data were analyzed using descriptive
statistics and chi-square hypotheses testing at the 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that
circular economy strategies—particularly recycling, reuse initiatives, product redesign, and
community-based material recovery systems—significantly influenced plastic waste minimization.
Respondents overwhelmingly agreed that increasing public participation in recycling programs,
promoting producer responsibility policies, and integrating innovative plastic-to-resource
technologies strengthen sustainable waste reduction outcomes. All three hypotheses were rejected,
indicating statistically significant relationships between circular economy practices and plastic waste
reduction indicators. The study concludes that circular economy adoption remains crucial for
mitigating plastic pollution in urban developing regions, although the current implementation level is
inadequate. It recommends stronger government–private sector collaboration, enhanced community
sensitization, extended producer responsibility enforcement, investment in recycling infrastructure,
and integration of circular principles into urban environmental policies. These measures will improve
environmental health, socioeconomic development, and long-term sustainability in developing urban
regions.