EGYPT – SIG has partnered with the social enterprise Plastic Bank and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH to introduce a transformative project aimed at reshaping Egypt’s recycling landscape and enhancing security for waste collection members.
Egypt grapples with a staggering waste generation of over 95 million tons annually, of which only 60% is currently collected, with less than 20% undergoing proper disposal or recycling.
With no formalized system for waste collection and recycling in place, the country faces significant environmental and socioeconomic challenges.
The alliance between SIG, GIZ Egypt, and Plastic Bank represents a concerted effort to address these pressing issues and drive positive change.
Over a three-year period, the partners endeavor to collect 700 metric tonnes of beverage cartons while simultaneously improving the livelihoods of approximately 1,000 local waste collection members through blockchain technology.
Powered by PlasticBank’s innovative blockchain-secured platform, the PlasticBank® app revolutionizes waste collection by offering traceability and transparency.
Waste collection members can log each collected item via the app, earning incentives deposited directly into their digital wallets.
Moreover, they gain access to essential social benefits, including health and life insurance, digital connectivity, grocery vouchers, and educational supplies.
To ensure their safety and well-being, waste collection members will also receive comprehensive training and personal protective equipment.
Beyond its immediate impact on waste collection and recycling, the project plays a pivotal role in laying the foundation for an extended producer responsibility (EPR) model in Egypt.
By partnering closely with the Egypt Waste Management Regulatory Authority, the initiative aims to integrate recycling into the legislative framework and underscores the vital role of packaging manufacturers in environmental stewardship.
Abdelghany Eladib, President & General Manager India, Middle East, and Africa at SIG, emphasized the significance of the partnership in advancing towards a circular economy.
He highlighted the project’s focus on establishing a robust recycling system for beverage cartons in the Greater Cairo area and beyond, thereby reducing environmental impact and creating a market for recycled paper.
Supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) funding program “develoPPP” and its special initiative “Decent Work for a Just Transition,” implemented by GIZ Egypt, this project represents a powerful example of international cooperation driving sustainable development and environmental stewardship in Egypt.
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