Assessing the Formal and Informal Waste Reuse Practices in Lebanon: A Stakeholders' Perspective

Abstract

Over the years, global solid waste mismanagement has escalated to unparalleled extents. The ramifications stemming from the global waste crisis have also been manifested in noticeable ways, either through direct or indirect consequences. The reuse principle of the circular economy model holds the ability to impede the solid waste conundrum. However, additional research is required on reuse to enhance the transition towards a more circular economy. In addition, the informal sector also plays a significant role within this context, yet there also exists a noticeable gap regarding their integration or formalization. Accordingly, a semi-structured interview has been conducted to enable a comprehensive understanding of the solid waste reuse practices in Lebanon and an assessment of the informal sector’s role. The findings of the research reveal that the reuse and repair market has been characterized as an unfamiliar market. Furthermore, the informal sector’s involvement has brought about significant consequences. As for the management structure of the informal sector within the domain, the findings indicate that formalizing or integrating the informal sector gives rise to several challenges and a broader implication that extends beyond the solid waste sector and becomes a matter of political, national, governmental, and even regional accountability. Therefore, in order to conceptualize a potential framework or way to proceed, it has been deduced that the most effective strategy for supervising the informal sector, given the prevailing conditions and circumstances, lies in regulating the SWM sector in itself. This will elevate the status of the SWM industry, resulting in a gradual decline of the informal sector as it becomes financially unviable for them to sustain their operations.