Côte d’Ivoire launches ECO BOX project to tackle plastic waste in Treichville

In a bold move to combat plastic pollution and foster sustainable circular economy practices, SOLIBRA has unveiled the ECO BOX initiative in Treichville, marking its launch on World Plastic Bag Free Day. This groundbreaking project aims to address the pressing issue of plastic waste accumulation that clogs drainage systems and undermines urban sanitation infrastructure in the bustling commune.

Treichville was strategically selected for this initiative due to its high daily plastic waste output, which poses significant environmental and health risks. The ECO BOX project is designed to convert this waste into valuable resources through an organized collection and recycling system, thereby transforming a pressing challenge into an economic opportunity.

The initiative is built on a robust partnership between SOLIBRA, the local J’Adore Foundation, and BIRWAST, a specialist in plastic waste recycling. Together, these entities are committed to enhancing waste management, protecting urban environments, and generating local employment opportunities. To kickstart operations, SOLIBRA has equipped the project teams with essential tools, including six wheelbarrows, a collection tricycle, 80 waste bags, twelve rakes, gloves, shovels, and traditional brooms, ensuring efficient and hygienic waste collection.

The ECO BOX project sets out to achieve several key goals: reducing the volume of plastic waste in drainage systems to mitigate flood risks, creating jobs for local youth as collection agents and drivers, and repurposing collected plastics through recycling. Additionally, the initiative places a strong emphasis on public awareness, with collection agents tasked with educating residents on proper waste sorting and promoting cleanliness within the commune.

The launch event was a vibrant affair, highlighted by the symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked the official commencement of ECO BOX activities. Following the ceremony, the keys to the first collection tricycle were handed over to a local agent, who will now traverse Treichville’s streets to gather plastic waste and kickstart the recycling process.