DOI: 10.11648/j.ijeee.20261104.11 ISSN: 2575-5021

Circular Business Model for Vehicle Lead-Acid Batteries in Ethiopia

Samuel Melese, Seyidu Abrah, Delelegn Toga, Ermias Tesfaye
Show PDF Cite
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.

More from our Archive