As one of South Asia’s fastest urbanizing economies, Bangladesh is grappling with a rapid increase in waste generation. Over the past three decades, the volume of waste has doubled every 15 years. 55% of solid waste in urban areas remains uncollected, with collection efficiency varying from 37% to 77% (Islam, 2021). Among various waste types, plastic waste mismanagement is the most concerning. Last year, Bangladesh ranked as one of the top countries in plastic pollution, largely due to inadequate plastic waste management.
To address this urgent issue, AMAL Foundation launched the “Entrepreneurship by Plastic: Trash to Treasure Project” in Bogra District. This three-month project empowered local communities by building awareness and creating livelihoods in the solid waste sector.
The project trained 45 individuals, aged 18 to 35, in plastic waste collection and recycling processes, equipping them with practical skills to operate in the waste management sector. From this group, three core leaders were identified, each leading a team of 15 trash collectors. Waste workers collected PET bottles from households, corporate offices, and institutions, submitting them to the leaders in exchange for payment. The leaders then sorted the collected waste at a segregation hub before selling it to Mumanu Polyester Company Limited, where the bottles were recycled.
In parallel, the project engaged youth and community members through an awareness campaign promoting the 3Rs: Reuse, Recycle, and Reduce. Educational institutions and local communities were encouraged to adopt sustainable waste management practices, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
The initiative created viable entrepreneurship opportunities for underprivileged women and youth, enabling them to generate income through waste management. It raised awareness about the importance of proper plastic waste handling and promoting sustainable habits.This project contributed to a cleaner environment and supported the development of a more sustainable, eco-conscious society.
