Communicators' Perspective Vis-A-Vis Simulation Modelling of the Circular Economy for Sustainable Waste Management

This paper examined professional communicators in Imo state to determine their perspectives on the use of simulation modelling in communicating circular economy (CE) concepts, principles and practices for sustainable waste management. The specific objectives include but not limited to; examine knowledge level of communicators' on CE simulation models, ascertain communicators' perception on integrating simulation models for disseminating information on CE. The study was anchored on diffusion of innovation theory. The mixed research design comprising the survey and the in-depth interview were adopted to collect quantitative and qualitative data from participating stakeholders. Population of the study comprised communicators in Imo state which proportion is not known.Therefore sample size of 384 was derived using Cochran’s sample size formula for unknown population. Sampling techniques include, purposive, convenience and snowball. Structured questionnaire and interview guide were employed as instruments for data collection.. The quantitative data were analysed using tables, frequency counts and percentage while the qualitative data were thematically analysed. Result showed moderate level of knowledge on circular economy principles and practices, little familiarity with simulation modelling, with positive perception about the integration of simulation models in communicating circular economy. However challenges perceived in adopting the innovation include but not limited to lack of skills and knowledge among Communicaton professionals and limited access to digital tools. It was recommendeded that media organisations should endeavour to employ relevant personnel and provide required digital devices to facilitate the adaptation of the initiative.