Assessing the Potentials of Circular Economy in Waste Reduction and Job Creation in Assosa Town, Ethiopia

Rapid urbanization, population growth, industrial expansion, and rural-to-urban migration have significantly increased municipal solid waste (MSW) generation worldwide. It is estimated that nearly half of global waste is already produced in urban areas, with projections indicating a potential doubling of MSW by 2050. These emerging realities highlight the urgent need for sustainable and innovative waste management systems that move beyond traditional disposal methods. In response, the circular economy approach has gained prominence as a viable framework for enhancing resource efficiency, promoting waste valorization, and reducing environmental impacts. This paper examines the role of circular economy principles in municipal solid waste management, with a focus on their potential to reduce waste, generate income, and create employment opportunities. Municipal authorities play a central role in ensuring effective waste management systems that not only maintain urban cleanliness and environmental quality but also contribute to socioeconomic development. The study emphasizes that integrating circular economy strategies into MSW systems can transform waste streams into valuable economic resources, thereby supporting sustainable urban development and livelihood improvement