Exploring a South Africa Circular Economy Platform Large quantities of waste are still landfilled in South Africa, creating harmful emissions. Aside from the environmental challenges, inefficient waste management in cities and communities exposes people to health risks, establishes high risks of environmental degradation and flooding, including blocked sewerage systems, and exposes natural resources and water bodies to degradation and reduction in quality. Other factors, including climate change and population growth, will further exacerbate these risks.As a result, despite a relatively high rate of informal, solid urban waste recycling, the current economy leads to the depletion of precious resources. It does not account for negative externalities exerted upon the environment. A circular economy presents a sustainable solution to part of the socio-economic and environmental challenges resulting from the current linear economic model in South Africa.A circular economy platform can be a key driver, connecting government, academia, knowledge institutions and businesses, accelerating and aligning circular economy policy, business and knowledge initiatives in South Africa.This project identifies the main stakeholders and explores the possibilities of a future circular platform and future circular economy projects.This first phase of preparatory research is to collect information on the set-up of a future circular hotspot and reach commitment within a frontrunners’ group of stakeholders on establishing a South African Circular Economy Platform. This phase is implemented by the Africa Circular Economy Network (ACEN).Holland Circular Hotspot aims to provide Dutch technical and other advice and share experiences on the set-up of circular platforms and circular economy.