Ayuda en Acción, Indorama Ventures, IMG Group drive recycling initiatives in Mali

MALI – Ayuda en Acción, Indorama Ventures, and IMG Group have partnered to launch ‘Bamagreen’, a pioneering recycling and reforestation initiative in the capital city, Bamako, Mali.

This project marks the first deployment under the Plastic2Prosperity program, developed through IMG Group’s adaPETation network.

The initiative aims to strengthen plastic circularity while delivering critical socio-economic benefits to vulnerable populations, particularly women, youth, and those displaced by conflict.

At its core, Bamagreen is designed to drive inclusive development. The program will create stable employment for approximately 1,950 people, 40% of whom will be women, through roles in recycling, waste collection, and environmental awareness campaigns.

Additionally, more than 100,000 residents of Bamako are expected to benefit from a broad campaign focused on urban reforestation and waste education.

The initiative will also support and expand the operations of local social enterprise ECOBUILD, enhancing the city’s capacity to manage plastic waste and reducing the environmental impact of open dumping and deforestation, which are accelerating pollution and desertification across the region.

“This agreement reflects our commitment to sustainability and to creating opportunities for the most vulnerable populations,” said Jean Christophe Gerard, Regional Coordinator for the Sahel at Ayuda en Acción.

“We are not only addressing an environmental problem but also providing economic opportunities for those who need them most.”

Yash Lohia, Executive President and Chairman of the ESG Council at Indorama Ventures, a global sustainable chemical producer, highlighted the transformative potential of the partnership, “At Indorama Ventures, we believe that waste is not just a problem—it’s a powerful opportunity. Through initiatives like Plastic2Prosperity, we can convert environmental challenges into engines of socio-economic growth.

“This project in Mali shows what’s possible when we work together to regenerate both communities and our planet.”

Carlota Calonje, Social Impact Manager at IMG Group, emphasized the scalable nature of the Bamagreen model, “Bamagreen embodies everything we strive for with adaPETation—turning plastic waste challenges into opportunities to empower people and rebuild communities.

“This is just the beginning. We aim to replicate this model in other regions where plastic plays a dual role as both a challenge and a catalyst for change.”

The partners also underscored the importance of sustainable livelihoods, particularly for women and youth, within circular economy frameworks.

As climate challenges intensify, Bamagreen offers a practical and inclusive model for tackling waste and deforestation while fostering economic resilience in fragile urban settings.

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