A comprehensive policy framework for unlocking the potential of water hyacinth in Ethiopia’s circular bioeconomy

Abstract

The invasive water hyacinth (WH), Eichhornia crassipes, poses a severe environmental and economic threat to Ethiopian water bodies, particularly in the Rift Valley water bodies and Lake Tana. Known for its rapid proliferation, WH outcompetes native vegetation, doubling its coverage every 13 days, and has the potential to produce 140–350 tons of dry weight per hectare/annum. Lake Tana’s northern shore alone bears the brunt of this issue, with an estimated 50,000 hectares of affected areas in Lake Tana alone covering approximately 130 km of lakeshore length as of 2015, apart from other lakes. In response to this pressing concern, the present study is dedicated to formulating a comprehensive circular bioeconomy policy framework focusing on effectively utilizing WH biomass. This innovative framework aims to convert WH biomass into valuable biofuels and other products, acknowledging its potential for environmental mitigation. It integrates diverse policy instruments – informational, economic, cooperative, and regulatory – to encourage sustainable WH biomass production and processing. With a focus on fostering economic advantages for local communities, the framework tackles challenges and outlines implementation strategies, highlighting the importance of international collaboration and robust monitoring systems. Success depends on alignment with existing policies related to environmental protection, energy production, and economic development. The framework unlocks economic, social, and ecological benefits and emphasizes stakeholder collaboration, community participation, and international cooperation. It offers a proactive approach to managing the invasive WH threat sustainably, transforming adversity into sustainable growth. Furthermore, it serves as a model for other countries facing similar challenges, contributing to the global shift towards a circular bioeconomy.