Inclusive adoption of circular economy in Egypt: communication and stakeholder engagement among low- and middle-income communities

This paper explores the adoption of circular economy (CE) practices in Egypt, with a particular focus on communication and stakeholder engagement strategies for middle- and low-income communities. While Egypt has shown growing policy interest in CE through national waste management reforms and international partnerships, the spread of adoption so far has been more visible in urban centers and within the formal sector. The study employs a mixed-methods design, combining the SALSA methodology (Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, and Analysis) to systematically review academic literature, policy documents, corporate initiatives, and NGO programs from 2018–2025, with an expert consultation survey of 20 specialists in CE and community communication. Quantitative survey items were processed through descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were thematically coded using ATLAS.ti, ensuring transparency, rigor, and contextual depth. Although recycling and green entrepreneurship are expanding, most awareness campaigns still emphasize ecological benefits. For many communities in Egypt, however, the appeal of CE is more tangible when framed in terms of livelihood opportunities, income stability, and social fairness. The analysis highlights the informal sector, particularly informal waste collectors, as playing a pivotal role with exceptionally high recovery rates, indicating the potential benefits of stronger integration within formal systems. Evidence further demonstrates that localized, participatory communication channels and grassroots initiatives outperform centralized awareness campaigns in driving behavioral change. Building on these insights, the paper proposes a framework for inclusive CE dissemination structured around three pillars: grassroots empowerment through education, multi-stakeholder economic integration, and adaptive, data-driven communication. Policy recommendations include reframing CE as an economic opportunity, institutionalizing bottom-up engagement, and embedding informal sector contributions within national strategies. By emphasizing equity and inclusivity, the study argues that CE can evolve from isolated initiatives into a nationwide driver of sustainable development, poverty reduction, and social justice in Egypt.