Bangkok’s waste metabolism: barriers and opportunities for inclusive circularity

Abstract

Despite progress in policy and practice, there has been a lack of focus on the social implications of circular transitions in developing cities in Asia. Specifically, how the informal sector which often forms the backbone of recycling efforts will be integrated. Influencing behaviour at the consumer level towards more sustainable practices is also under-explored. Responding to this gap, this paper presents data from informal waste workers, households and junkshops in two Bangkok districts which we analyse from material, social and behavioural perspectives, drawing out implications for inclusive circularity. At the household level, we find a critical problem of organic waste as the most significant waste type thrown away as trash. Behavioural analysis uncovers a value-action gap between attitudes and practices around waste separation, while economic motivation and collective action emerge as important drivers of behaviour. We provide several avenues for behaviour change but also draw attention to the limits of individual action and of market-based systems for recycling, arguing that policymakers have a leading role to play in piloting circular waste structures, regulating industry and creating an enabling environment for behaviour change. Greater recognition and support for the informal sector is also essential for inclusive circularity.