Research Article
Circular Business Model for Vehicle Lead-Acid Batteries in Ethiopia
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
97-116
Received:
26 August 2026
Accepted:
10 September 2026
Published:
27 September 2026
Abstract: The increasing generation of end-of-life vehicle lead-acid batteries (LABs) presents significant environmental and resource-management challenges, while also creating opportunities for circular economy (CE) implementation. Although LABs are highly recyclable, circular practices in developing countries remain constrained by economic, institutional, and organizational barriers. This study aims to identify suitable circular strategies for vehicle LABs in Ethiopia, determine the key factors influencing the adoption of circular business models (CBMs), and develop a context-specific CBM for extending battery value and reducing waste. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining expert interviews, thematic analysis, cost-benefit assessment, Grey-Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (Grey-DEMATEL) analysis, and the Circular Business Model Canvas framework. Three circular strategies were identified as particularly relevant to the Ethiopian context: repair for reuse, repurposing, and recycling. Analysis of 23 adoption factors using Grey-DEMATEL identified four critical factors with the greatest influence on CBM adoption: the lack of business models incorporating take-back systems, high costs of handling and processing, inadequate communication and coordination among stakeholders, and insufficient supportive government policies. Based on these findings, a Circular Business Model Canvas was developed to integrate repair, repurposing, and recycling strategies within the vehicle LAB value chain. The proposed model provides a context-specific framework for extending battery service life, recovering material value, reducing waste, and strengthening resource efficiency. The study contributes to the emerging literature on circular business models in developing economies and provides practical insights for policymakers, battery businesses, recyclers, and other stakeholders seeking to establish a more sustainable and circular vehicle battery system in Ethiopia.
Abstract: The increasing generation of end-of-life vehicle lead-acid batteries (LABs) presents significant environmental and resource-management challenges, while also creating opportunities for circular economy (CE) implementation. Although LABs are highly recyclable, circular practices in developing countries remain constrained by economic, institutional, ...
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Review Article
Enhancing Agricultural Resilience Through Climate-Smart Practices: A Case Study of Smallholder Farmers in Horro Guduru Wallaga Zone, Hababo Guduru Woreda
Gamachu Busa Meskele*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
117-125
Received:
1 September 2026
Accepted:
29 September 2026
Published:
21 October 2026
Abstract: Climate variability and environmental stressors, including erratic rainfall, recurrent drought, and soil degradation, increasingly threaten the sustainability of smallholder agriculture in Ethiopia, where rain-fed farming remains the main source of livelihood and food security. Although climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is widely promoted as a strategy to increase productivity, build resilience, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, evidence on its effects at the local level remains limited. This study therefore investigates how CSA practices enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers in Hababo Guduru Woreda, Horro Guduru Wallaga Zone, and Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Primary data were collected through household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions with smallholder farmers, development agents, and local officials. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings reveal that the adoption of CSA practices, such as soil and water conservation, improved crop varieties, agroforestry, crop diversification, and organic fertilizer use, improves crop productivity, soil health, and household food security while reducing vulnerability to climate shocks. Policy support, farmer training and extension services, and access to financial incentives and credit were identified as key enablers of CSA uptake, whereas limited access to climate information, inputs, and capital constrained wider adoption. The study concludes that CSA is an effective pathway for strengthening agricultural resilience among smallholder farmers in the study area. It recommends that local and national stakeholders strengthen extension and training programs, expand access to finance and climate information, and integrate CSA into agricultural development policies to promote climate-resilient agriculture.
Abstract: Climate variability and environmental stressors, including erratic rainfall, recurrent drought, and soil degradation, increasingly threaten the sustainability of smallholder agriculture in Ethiopia, where rain-fed farming remains the main source of livelihood and food security. Although climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is widely promoted as a strate...
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