In a strategic collaboration, SIG has partnered with Plastic Bank and GIZ GmbH to revolutionize recycling in Egypt, enhancing waste collection security.
With over 95 million tons of waste generated annually in Egypt, only 60% is currently collected and less than 20% properly disposed of or recycled. The absence of a formal waste collection and recycling system calls for urgent intervention. Through a three-year initiative, SIG, GIZ Egypt, and Plastic Bank aim to collect 700 metric tons of beverage cartons while uplifting the livelihoods of 1,000 local waste collection members via blockchain technology.
The PlasticBank app, supported by a secure blockchain platform, enables waste collection members to gain transparency and traceability in their efforts. They can convert collected materials into revenue by logging each item on the app, receiving incentives, accessing social benefits, and receiving training and safety equipment for their well-being.
By establishing a streamlined system for waste collection and recycling, including beverage cartons, this project also paves the way for an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) model in Egypt. It aligns with the Egypt Waste Management Regulatory Authority’s goals of incorporating recycling into legislation and emphasizes the role of packaging manufacturers in environmental stewardship.
Abdelghany Eladib, President & General Manager India, Middle East and Africa at SIG: “Our new partnership propels us towards a circular economy. Initiatives like this in Egypt set the precedent for future programs, focusing on reducing environmental impact and creating a market for recycled paper through beverage carton recycling in the Greater Cairo area and beyond.”
This project receives support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) “develoPPP” funding program and the special initiative “Decent Work for a Just Transition” implemented by GIZ Egypt.
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