THE WORLD OF WASTE COLLECTORS

A selection of stories, podcasts and interviews with the unsung heroes of the PET value chain.

The ripple effect of systems change: how Plastics For Change is transforming PET’s value chain

Plastics For Change connects waste collectors with global brands through fair trade principles, creating cascading positive effects across the entire PET value chain while transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities.

Creating a regenerative path for PET: 5 actionable steps

Pioneering scientists and entrepreneurs are forging a regenerative path for PET plastic through nature-inspired biotechnology, waste collector empowerment, thoughtful design, innovative financing, and effective policies that together transform waste into valuable resources.

Lessons from a waste collector empowerment initiative

Discover how Thierry Sanders, founder of Kolekt, is empowering waste collectors globally through innovative solutions, financial empowerment, and technology. Learn key lessons from his work to improve livelihoods and tackle the plastic waste crisis at its roots.

The world’s waste collectors: unsung heroes of the Circular Economy

Waste collectors are essential in the fight against plastic pollution, yet their contributions are often overlooked. We explore how the PET industry can deploy a more inclusive approach to sustainability.

Dissecting the role of waste collectors in the PET value chain

Waste collectors, responsible for 60% of all plastic recycled, are on the frontline in the battle against plastic pollution and social entrepreneurs are showcasing the significant environmental and social benefits of integrating these eco-heroes into sustainable waste management systems, highlighting their essential role in the PET value chain.

8 Steps to Start Your Own Waste Management Initiative

Looking for inspiration on how to close the loop on plastic waste? Here are ten innovative environmental education initiatives and social enterprises that are transforming the way we think about and work with PET plastic.

PET Heroes 2024: Nominee #12 Chioma Ukonu

Chioma Ukonu, the co-founder of RecyclePoints, is our twelfth and final nominee for the PET Heroes 2024 award, thanks to her innovative approach to tackling Nigeria’s urban waste management crisis

PET Heroes 2024: Nominee #11 Peter Muthaura

Meet Peter Muthaura, our eleventh finalist for the PET Heroes 2024 and the driving force behind the Human Needs Project in Kibera, as he shares his innovative approach to transforming Africa’s largest slum through sustainable solutions.

Our tenth nominee is Khalil Radi, co-founder of Buy Food with Plastic

PET Heroes 2024: Nominee #10 Khalil Radi

Our tenth finalist for the PET Heroes 2024 award is Khalil Radi, the innovator behind the transformative social enterprise “Buy Food with Plastic.

Lessons in Fundraising and Transparency from Buy Food with Plastic

Join us on the journey of “Buy Food With Plastic” as we sit down and talk to Khalil Radi and learn from his innovative project turning plastic waste into a force for good on three continents.

Nano Morante Shows How Plastic People Can Change the World

In this adaPETation® podcast, Nano Morante, founder of Plastic People, shares his experience transforming plastic pollution into sustainable solutions.

Our eighth nominee for PET Heroes 2024 is Nano Morante of Plastic People

PET Heroes 2024: Nominee #8 – Nano Morante

Nano Morante’s social enterprise, Plastic People is reshaping the narrative on plastic in Southeast Asia by putting design and community at the heart of his solution to the waste problem in Vietnam.

The Imperative of women’s role in waste management

There are compelling reasons for centering female voices in environmental strategies and waste management. Dive into a transformative journey where the principles of biomimicry and women’s unique perspectives converge, heralding a brighter, more sustainable future for our planet.