Network properties of the global waste trade

Network properties of the global waste trade

Wide shot of Businessman and worker talking on platform above conveyor belts in recycling plant
Author
Filippos K. Zisopoulos, Brian D. Fath, Xin Tong, Martin de Jong
Publication Date
December, 2024
Country
Netherlands
Language for original content
Scope

The network properties of the global waste trade were assessed using time series data of material and monetary flows between 2000 and 2022 from Chatham House's experimental database. The study focused on the distribution of monetary and material flows, policy recommendations and future research avenues useful for obtaining a more comprehensive understanding of socio-economic systems such as trade networks.

This work is a solid example of the application of network-based methods as an eco-mimicry approach for assessing the sustainability and fragility of socio-economic systems which can be helpful for researchers and policy makers interested in transitions towards regenerative circular economies.