Nurturing and Embedding Zero-Waste and Circular Economy Concepts and Practices in Kenya's Basic Education

Waste generation is a critical global challenge of the 21 st century, imposing significant economic, environmental, and social burdens. While this crisis persists, basic education institutions offer a powerful, yet underutilized opportunity to embed proper knowledge and skills on waste management among the students at the stage of forming behavioural patterns. This study explored the current state of waste management practices in Kenya' s basic education institutions, with the ultimate goal of nurturing a zero-waste culture and inducing circular economy concepts and practices. The study followed a mixed-methods approach using in-person visits and case studies conducted across a few primary and secondary schools in Kiambu, Nairobi, Machakos, Busia, and Kajiado counties in Kenya. Focused group discussions and interviews were conducted to collect primary data from sampled teachers while data from students was collected using questionnaires, complemented by direct field observations of waste generation and management practices. The study employed quantitative and thematic analysis to present a clear picture of waste management practices in these schools. The study also reviewed appropriate information from secondary sources using published literature. The present status has been compared with the outcome of the activities in the flagship mission," Catch Them Young: Zero Waste and Circular Economy in Campus" being carried out in many schools in several countries. The findings provide a critical baseline, painting a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities within Kenya' s educational system. This research will inform targeted policy and practical interventions, paving the way for the creation of a zero-waste society and a well-informed citizen empowered to sustainably practice a circular economy.