The Gambian Circulation Economic Diagnosis aims to identify circular economy opportunities within the tourism sector. Despite its significant potential, Gambia faces major challenges in resource efficiency and environmental sustainability, particularly in areas such as plastic waste management and recycling. The tourism sector has attracted more than $45 million in foreign investment since 2015, but only a small portion of these funds are directed towards managing tourism's environmental impacts.
In this study, urban solid waste generation has risen from 0.4 million tonnes in 2011 to 0.6 million tonnes in 2020, with organic waste accounting for 51% of total waste. Domestic waste management is fragmented and features limited formal collection services. The energy sector relies heavily on non-renewable sources of oil, with renewable energy contributing only 43% of its energy supply. The Gambia River provides ample surface water, but the country's drinking water supply is primarily drawn from groundwater. This runs the risk of contamination and overdegeneration.
This report provides strategies to improve resource efficiency and promote circularity tailored to the Gambia's unique geographical and economic landscape. This study also assessed the size of the potential markets for sustainability initiatives in the tourism sector. The findings reveal a strong drive among tourism businesses to adopt sustainable practices despite remaining challenges such as financial constraints and lack of infrastructure.
High-priority initiatives identified include the establishment of a waste management facility integrated into crabfing and the introduction of excursions and transport along the Electric River along the Gambia River. These initiatives will create a more sustainable waste management system, improve diversification of tourism to the river, and provide economic benefits through increased job creation and business sales, while also increasing plastic waste. It is intended to reduce the number of
Supporting these initiatives requires institutional and regulatory reforms. Key recommendations include implementing green procurement practices, training hotels and restaurants in appropriate waste management, updating waste bills, and integration of sustainable tourism practices into national tourism policies and strategies. By taking these measures, the Gambia can strengthen economic resilience and environmental sustainability and establish itself as a leader in circular economy practices within the tourism sector.
In February 2025, the World Bank launched the first of these follow-up initiatives. Hotel and restaurant sustainability training is available with free online courses.
read more
Source: World Bank Group
