Informal Metal Recycling and Circular Economy Potential in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality: Environmental, Socio-Economic and Systemic Dynamics

Abstract

This study examined the scale of informal metal recycling in the King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Municipality and evaluated its socioeconomic and environmental impacts through a circular economy lens. While formal recycling programs have received research attention, informal recycling systems have been less examined despite their critical contribution. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and material measurements with qualitative field observations. Data were collected through focus groups and surveys administered to 48 active recyclers operating along the N2 and R61 highways, supported by systematic field observations and quantification of all recovered materials. The results showed that steel and aluminum were the most recovered metals at 41.7% and 20.8%. Recyclers collected an average of 15.3 kg/day (SD = 4.2) during periods of high material availability and accessibility and the materials are close to market points. The study underscores the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of informal recycling within the circular economy framework, with most participants (85.42%) indicating that recycling was a significant livelihood while 74% cited difficulty transporting bulky materials, often manually. Therefore, the study emphasizes that informal recyclers play a vital role in sustaining the local economy by offering key waste management and resource recovery services. Acknowledge of these informal systems will contribute to a more inclusive understanding of waste management in developing contexts.