In celebration of International Women’s Day, we honor ten extraordinary women who are transforming the PET plastic industry. These leaders are pioneering innovations, engaging communities, and driving systemic change to close the plastic loop. Their inspiring work reminds us of the critical role women play in fostering sustainability and environmental stewardship.
March 8th marks International Women’s Day, a time to celebrate the achievements of women worldwide and reflect on their invaluable contributions to every field. In the PET plastic industry—a sector pivotal in tackling global plastic pollution—women are leading the charge with technological innovations, social entrepreneurship, and community-driven initiatives. From rethinking recycling systems to empowering marginalised communities, these women are redefining sustainability and forging a circular economy that benefits both people and the planet.
This year, we spotlight ten remarkable women who are revolutionising the PET plastic industry. Their dedication, ingenuity, and leadership inspire action and exemplify how systemic change can address pressing environmental challenges.
The role of women in transforming the PET plastic industry
The PET plastic industry, at the forefront of sustainability efforts, has seen significant contributions from women. These leaders bring diverse perspectives and holistic solutions to complex challenges, such as plastic waste management, recycling innovation, and circular economy practices. Women’s leadership is often characterised by their emphasis on inclusivity and long-term impact, incorporating social equity alongside environmental goals.
From developing cutting-edge technologies to creating grassroots movements, women have proven to be catalysts for systemic change. They have challenged outdated practices, championed policies that support sustainability, and uplifted communities by integrating local knowledge into global solutions. Their efforts not only reduce environmental harm but also provide economic opportunities, particularly for underprivileged groups.
Despite these successes, women in the industry often face unique challenges, including underrepresentation in leadership roles. However, their growing recognition highlights the shifting narrative toward inclusivity and equity. By showcasing their achievements, we hope to inspire a new generation of female innovators who will continue to reshape the PET plastic industry.
10 women leading the PET plastic industry
Surbhi Jore
Surbhi Jore, Founder and CEO of ASM Global, is a visionary in sustainable circular supply chains. Through her groundbreaking platform, RecyclX, she has redefined traceability and transparency in the circular economy, enabling businesses to track materials across their lifecycle. Her work goes beyond technological innovation—Jore advocates for climate neutrality and corporate social responsibility, inspiring companies to move from generic green claims to actionable sustainability practices. Her leadership is driving measurable impact in the global net-zero movement.
Wilma Rodrigues
Wilma Rodrigues, CEO of Saahas Zero Waste, has dedicated over two decades to addressing the pressing issue of waste management. From founding the NGO Saahas in 2001 to building a company that processes 100 tons of municipal waste daily, her efforts demonstrate how technology, nature, and people can work together to recover resources. By implementing zero-waste systems and enabling brands to meet extended producer responsibility (EPR) standards, Wilma’s initiatives are transforming urban environments while empowering communities.
Dian Kurniawati
Dian Kurniawati left a promising consulting career to found Tridi Oasis in 2015, a company that transforms plastic waste into valuable products like carpets, bags, and T-shirts. Driven by her firsthand experience with the environmental toll of mining in Indonesia, she is creating both economic opportunities and environmental solutions. By empowering local families and breathing new life into low-value plastics, Dian is demonstrating how entrepreneurship can address systemic waste challenges while uplifting underserved communities.
Lorna Rutto
Lorna Rutto, founder and CEO of EcoPost, is a social entrepreneur committed to tackling unemployment, plastic pollution, and deforestation in Africa. By recycling over 13 million kilograms of plastic into sustainable timber alternatives, EcoPost has created thousands of jobs and protected thousands of acres of forest. Rutto’s efforts have also prevented millions of kilograms of CO2 emissions, proving that environmental and social impact can go hand in hand. Her work exemplifies the power of circularity to drive systemic change.
Bilikiss Adebiyi-Abiola
Bilikiss Adebiyi-Abiola, founder of Wecyclers in Lagos, Nigeria, is revolutionising urban waste management through her innovative recycling programs. By combining technology and community engagement, she has created a scalable solution that addresses plastic pollution while empowering residents. Her extensive education, which includes an MBA from MIT Sloan, and her recognition as an Echoing Green Fellow reflect her expertise and commitment to creating a circular economy in Africa.
Marta Vânia Uetela
Marta Vânia Uetela, CEO of BioMec, is addressing Mozambique’s dual challenges of plastic pollution and limited access to prosthetics. Her company repurposes ocean waste, such as ghost nets and PET bottles, to create affordable, high-performance prosthetic limbs. This innovation not only reduces environmental waste but also transforms the lives of amputees who previously had limited options. Marta’s work is a shining example of social entrepreneurship meeting sustainability.
Chioma Ukonu
Chioma Ukonu is the co-founder of RecyclePoints, Nigeria’s foremost social-benefit waste recycling organisation. With expertise in circular economy strategies, climate change mitigation, and community empowerment, she has pioneered innovative waste recovery models that reduce environmental harm while uplifting underserved populations. Her international recognition, including awards like the LEAP Africa Social Innovator Award, underscores her commitment to solving global waste challenges with systemic solutions.
Helena Navarro
Helena Navarro, director of the Pablo Horstmann Pediatric Hospital in Kenya, is a finalist of the PET Heroes 2023 initiative for her innovative use of recycled PET bottles. Her team has developed life-saving respiratory devices like inhalation chambers and CPAP machines, addressing critical health needs while reducing plastic waste. Helena’s work exemplifies the intersection of healthcare innovation and environmental stewardship, making a tangible impact on her community.
Kristin Hughes
Kristin Hughes, Director of the Global Plastic Action Partnership at the World Economic Forum, is a driving force behind policies and initiatives that transition societies toward a circular economy for plastics. She has championed gender and equity lenses in combating plastic pollution, from high-level government strategies to grassroots efforts. Kristin’s leadership highlights the indispensable role of women in creating sustainable and inclusive solutions for a global challenge.
Keefe Harrison
Keefe Harrison, CEO of The Recycling Partnership, is a trailblazer in fixing America’s recycling system. Her leadership ensures inclusive solutions, reflecting the diversity of the communities impacted. Keefe’s passion drives systemic change while inspiring the next generation of female changemakers in sustainability.
Women lead the way
These ten women exemplify the power of leadership, innovation, and resilience in transforming the PET plastic industry. Their achievements underline the importance of a systemic change approach—one that integrates environmental sustainability with social equity. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us honor these trailblazers and continue to support and amplify the voices of women in sustainability. Together, we can close the plastic loop and create a healthier planet for future generations.
LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION?
The future of plastics is being reshaped by visionary women leading the way in sustainability and innovation. Their work proves that PET plastic isn’t just a challenge—it’s an opportunity to drive circular solutions that benefit both people and the planet. Discover their stories, support women in the PET plastic industry, and be part of the shift toward a more sustainable future.
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THE HISTORY OF PLASTIC
Throughout the history of plastic, PET has been crucial in keeping food fresh with lightweight and durable packaging solutions that have helped reduce food waste for almost a century. Learn all about the invention of plastic and the important role it has played feeding people and saving the lives of humans and elephants in the adaPETation® timeline of the history of plastic.
