In a bold move to combat plastic pollution and foster sustainable circular economy practices, SOLIBRA has unveiled the ECO BOX initiative in Treichville, Abidjan. The launch coincided with the World Plastic Bag Free Day on July 3, 2026, underscoring the project’s alignment with global environmental goals.
Why Treichville? The commune was strategically selected due to its alarming daily plastic waste output, which clogs drainage systems and strains sanitation infrastructure. ECO BOX aims to convert this environmental burden into economic assets through an efficient collection and recycling network.
The initiative thrives on a robust partnership between SOLIBRA, the local J’Adore de Treichville Foundation, and BIRWAST, a leader in plastic waste recycling. Together, they seek to revolutionize waste management, mitigate urban pollution, and unlock local economic opportunities.
Equipping the teams To kickstart operations, frontline crews received essential tools: six wheelbarrows, one collection tricycle, 80 refuse bags, twelve rakes, along with gloves, shovels, and brooms. These resources will empower workers to systematically gather and process plastic waste across Treichville’s neighborhoods.
Key objectives ECO BOX targets multiple outcomes: gradually eliminating plastic debris from drainage channels to cut flood risks, creating jobs for local youth as collectors and drivers, and transforming collected plastics into reusable materials. Community engagement is central to the strategy—collection agents will educate residents on proper waste sorting and hygiene best practices.
The launch ceremony featured a symbolic ribbon-cutting and the handover of the first collection tricycle to a team member tasked with navigating Treichville’s streets to gather plastic waste.