In a bold move to combat plastic pollution and foster sustainable circular economy practices, SOLIBRA has launched the ECO BOX project in Treichville, Ivory Coast, marking the occasion of World Plastic Bag Free Day on July 3, 2026.
Treichville was selected as the project’s pilot site due to its staggering daily output of plastic waste, which clogs drainage systems and undermines sanitation infrastructure. The ECO BOX initiative aims to convert this waste into valuable resources through a streamlined collection and recycling framework, turning a persistent environmental challenge into economic opportunity.
Strengthening partnerships for impact
The project hinges on a strategic alliance between SOLIBRA, the J’Adore Treichville Foundation, and BIRWAST, a leading plastics recycling enterprise. This collaboration is designed to elevate waste management standards, safeguard the urban environment, and unlock local economic potential through job creation and resource recovery.
Essential tools for a cleaner future
To kickstart operations, SOLIBRA equipped the project teams with critical tools, including six wheelbarrows, a collection tricycle, 80 trash bags, twelve rakes, protective gloves, shovels, and traditional brooms. These resources empower local agents to execute efficient waste collection and sorting across Treichville’s streets and neighborhoods.
Transforming waste into opportunity
ECO BOX sets out to achieve measurable outcomes, such as eliminating plastic waste from storm drains to mitigate flooding risks, creating employment for local youth as collection agents and drivers, and reintroducing recycled plastics into the value chain. The initiative also prioritizes community engagement, tasking collectors with educating residents on proper waste segregation and fostering a culture of cleanliness throughout the commune.
The launch event culminated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to symbolize the project’s official commencement, followed by the symbolic handover of the first collection tricycle to a dedicated agent. This individual will now traverse Treichville’s thoroughfares daily, collecting plastic waste and spearheading the community’s transition toward a cleaner, greener future.