Redefining Africa's plastic narrative, Mr. Green Africa is more than recycling; it's a transformative tale that unites two entirely different worldviews. Discover how Keiran Smith's innovative approach is changing the waste management game in Kenya.
Our sixth finalist for PET Heroes 2024 is Keiran Smith, the founder of Mr Green Africa.
Mr Green Africa’s transformative endeavor, based in Kenya is reshaping the narrative on plastic waste in the African continent and beyond. The company stands out not just as a business but as a beacon of innovation in sustainable waste management.
Born from the passion of a former Zurich banker, Keiran Smith, the venture has since established itself as a pioneer in bridging the gap between waste collection and recycling.
While the world grapples with overflowing landfills and oceans awash with plastic debris, Mr. Green Africa is setting the precedent by turning the waste challenge into an opportunity.
Its model, rooted deeply in fairness, prioritizes waste collectors, often marginalized in the broader economic framework, by ensuring they are remunerated transparently.
Beyond this equitable trade model, the enterprise is a testament to the power of local validation – converting collected waste into value right within its country of origin.
As the first B Corp in Africa’s waste management sector, the company’s ethical DNA is undeniable. By intertwining environmental responsibility with economic viability, Mr. Green Africa is not just recycling plastic; it’s recycling hope, proving that with the right mindset, we can indeed close the loop on plastic waste.
Five Minutes with Keiran Smith: The Visionary Behind Mr. Green Africa
adaPETation®: Can you unravel the genesis of Mr. Green Africa and the story behind its foundation?
Keiran Smith: “My experience began in Zurich’s banking landscape. We initiated a household recycling model in Switzerland. A trip to Kenya introduced me to a community striving to earn a livelihood from waste collection. This sparked the idea: can we establish a fair system for this community? Integrating Swiss principles with the unique dynamics of Kenya led to the inception of Mr. Green Africa.”
adaPETation®: You’ve transitioned from Switzerland’s banking world to Kenyan waste management. What drove this profound change?
Keiran Smith: “In corporates, your contributions can feel constrained. I yearned for more meaningful engagement. The choice boiled down to observing from the sidelines or jumping in wholeheartedly. When Mr. Green Africa offered a tangible opportunity for change, I embraced it.”
adaPETation®: The word ‘fair’ is a recurring theme in Mr. Green Africa’s vision. Can you detail how this principle is embedded in your operations?
Keiran Smith: “Our framework is underpinned by two pillars: offering an inclusive and transparent remuneration to those engaged in waste collection and fostering local validation. By purchasing waste at a transparent and equitable price and converting it locally, we ensure the value remains within its country of origin.”
adaPETation®: Your venture has earned the esteemed B Corp certification, distinguishing it in its domain. How has this shaped your enterprise’s trajectory?
Keiran Smith: “Our B Corp status accentuates our pledge to merge business with impact. Where some firms adjust their activities to align with B Corp guidelines, our foundational model is naturally harmonious with it. Our approach is innately impactful.”
adaPETation®: In your journey, how do you reconcile global practices with local needs, especially given your diverse experiences from Europe to Africa?
Keiran Smith: “It’s crucial to respect and understand local dynamics. We didn’t want to transpose a European model onto Kenya. We adopted the principle that waste has value and adapted everything else, from collection to aggregation, based on local intricacies.”
adaPETation®: In a world grappling with ecological challenges, how does Mr. Green Africa stand as a beacon of hope and optimism?
Keiran Smith: “Every time we dispel a misconception or demonstrate feasibility, we broadcast it. Our aim is to inspire action, drive optimism, and embolden others to join the journey.”
adaPETation®: Lastly, with myriad avenues to bring about change, how do you pinpoint your direction and remain anchored to your mission?
Keiran Smith: “It’s centered on recognizing one’s core purpose. Everyone holds the potential to contribute positively to the world. In Mr. Green Africa’s journey, every step forward, every myth debunked, is our way of encouraging others to act.”
Keiran Smith’s transformation from a Zurich banker to championing socially equitable and eco-friendly solutions in Kenya is an invigorating tale. His unwavering commitment to fairness, sustainability, and locally-tailored solutions places Mr. Green Africa at the vanguard of innovative waste management.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
If you are looking for more information on the equitable approach of Mr Green Africa listen to the full interview on the adaPETation® podcast or sign up to receive more information about Mr Green Africa on its website.
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