Technology for Africa - within planetary boundaries
In the latest edition of ScienceScope, we feature some of the CSIR’s work to help meet the needs of the continent while answering critical questions about how it can contribute to global sustainable development goals. Read and watch stories about science, technology, and innovation for a sustainable future.
Launch of Skubu refill store reduces single-use plastic packaging in retail sector
The launch of Skubu marks a significant step in integrating circular economy principles into retail, demonstrating how innovation and sustainable business practices can benefit communities. Beyond environmental benefits, the demonstrator also tackles food security by allowing lower-income citizens to access quality products in smaller quantities at more affordable prices.
Speaking at the launch, Professor Linda Godfrey, CSIR principal researcher who leads Circular Innovation South Africa, a DSTI initiative hosted by the CSIR, said, “Skubu is a great demonstration initiative to show how circular economy principles can be implemented through collaboration. The intention is to focus on the national system of innovation, which looks at how a country creates and applies new ideas to improve technology and grow its economy. This includes bringing universities and science councils closer to the private sector to help de-risk and scale circular interventions,” she explained.