Five Youth-Led Organizations Using Tech to Combat Plastic Pollution In Africa
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African youth are taking action to combat the serious problem of plastic pollution on the continent. With an estimated 100 million tons of waste generated in Africa each year, much of it plastic, inadequate waste management infrastructure has led to pollution of waterways and harm to wildlife.
Creative and technologically skilled young people however, are developing innovative solutions to this challenge. Despite the many obstacles, African youth are leading the way in addressing plastic pollution.
Here are five youth-led organizations using tech to combat plastic pollution in Africa:
1. TileGreen
TileGreen is a start-up based in Egypt, dedicated to reducing plastic waste through a unique recycling process. TileGreen's innovative recycling process involves converting plastic waste into a material called interlocking tiles, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as flooring, paving and landscaping. The process involves shredding plastic waste into small pieces, which are then mixed with sand and other additives to create the interlocking tiles.
TileGreen's recycling process is also eco-friendly, as it reduces the amount of plastic waste that ends up in the environment. According to the company, each square meter of interlocking tiles produced by TileGreen contains up to 200 plastic bottles, which would otherwise have been discarded.
2. U-Recycle Initiative Africa
The company uses the "RecyclePoints" platform technology to incentivize people to recycle. Users of the platform are given points for every kilogram of plastic waste they bring to a recycling center. These points can then be redeemed for goods and services, such as airtime, groceries and transportation.
The RecyclePoints platform is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, even in areas with limited internet connectivity. Users can sign up for the platform using a basic mobile phone and can check their points balance and redeem rewards via SMS or a mobile app.
U-Recycle Initiative Africa is further using technology to streamline the recycling process. The company has developed a mobile app that allows recycling center managers to track the collection and processing of plastic waste, monitor the performance of their centers and generate reports on their activities.
Image Edit by Derrick Wachaya
The United Youth Initiative for Africa is using technology to combat plastic pollution through its "Trash Hunt" mobile app. The app is designed to encourage users to collect and dispose of plastic waste in a responsible manner. Users can track the amount of plastic waste they collect and earn points for their efforts. These points can then be redeemed for rewards such as cash, airtime, or e-vouchers.
The Trash Hunt app also has a social component, allowing users to connect with other like-minded individuals and organize community clean-up events. The app provides a platform for users to share their progress and inspire others to take action in their own communities.
4. Osiepe Sango (Friends of Lake Victoria)
The Kenyan start-up Osiepe Sango has developed a mobile app called "My Waste My Responsibility," designed to educate people about the negative effects of plastic waste and provide them with tips on how to reduce their plastic footprint. The app is available in both English and Swahili languages, making it accessible to a wider audience.
The app features a map of local recycling centers and waste collection points, making it easier for people to dispose of their plastic waste responsibly. The app also includes a feature that allows users to report illegal dumping sites and other environmental violations, helping to hold polluters accountable.
5. African Youth Waste Network (AYWN)
The African Youth Waste Network is using technology to combat plastic pollution through its "Plastic Waste Challenge" mobile app. The app is designed to encourage users to collect and properly dispose of plastic waste in their communities. Users can track their progress and earn points for their efforts, which can then be redeemed for rewards.
The "Plastic Waste Challenge" app also has a social component, allowing users to connect with other like-minded individuals and participate in community clean-up events. The app provides a platform for users to share their progress and inspire others to take action in their own communities.
AYWN is further using social media to raise awareness about plastic pollution and promote sustainable living. The organization has a strong presence on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, where it shares information about the impact of plastic waste on the environment and offers tips on how to reduce plastic use.
As plastic pollution continues to be a global problem, such organizations are leading the way in finding innovative and effective solutions. By using technology to engage and empower young people, the organizations are helping to create a more sustainable future for Africa and the world.