Africa’s plastic waste crisis is a ticking time bomb. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the continent produces approximately 25 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, yet only about 10% is recycled. This leads to severe environmental degradation, overflowing landfills and lost economic opportunities for communities across the region.

Plastic waste is more than just an environmental concern, it is a critical economic and social challenge that demands innovative solutions.Traditional concrete production further compounds these issues with high carbon emissions and environmental degradation.

However, pioneering laboratory innovations are now turning this crisis on its head. As plastic waste, once a symbol of environmental decline, is joining the foundation of tomorrow’s construction. 

Labs at the Forefront of Africa’s Circular’s Economy

Innovative laboratory solutions are emerging as a beacon of hope. Across Africa, laboratories and research centres are pioneering technologies that break down plastics and build them into durable eco-friendly construction materials.

These solutions reduce the environmental burden of plastic waste by offering lower carbon emissions and a reduced environmental footprint. Moreover, they stimulate economic activity by significantly reducing material costs through the creation of new building materials. Below we spotlight five industry recognised laboratories that are pioneering this green revolution.

1. Gjenge Makers, Kenya

Nairobi-based Gjenge Makers has garnered international acclaim for their innovative plastic bricks that are three times stronger than conventional concrete pavers. Their innovative processes repurpose PET bottles and industrial waste, churning out 1,500 plastic pavers daily. Which are utilised by schools and homes across Kenya due to its durability and affordability. 

Impact: Over 120 jobs created for women and youth in Nairobi. With various projects turning plastic waste into pavers such as repurposing 9 tonnes of plastic waste into 564m2 pavers in 2022.

2. Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), South Africa

CSIR’s Material Science Lab developed ‘Plastiphalt’, a pioneering road material, blending recycled plastics with asphalt, offering a lifespan 30% longer than traditional alternatives. Additionally, they have piloted e-waste concrete reinforced with crushed circuit boards utilising it in low-cost housing projects while cutting material costs.

Impact: CSIR has diverted over 1500 tonnes of e-waste from landfills since 2022. With piloted plastiphalt on roads reducing potholes by 40% in Gauteng, South Africa.

3. EcoAct, Tanzania

EcoAct’s innovative laboratories specialise in converting ocean bound plastics such as discarded fishing nets and bottles into recycled plastic lumber. This material has been utilised for fencing, decking, and structural beams which are enhanced with UV stabilisers to withstand harsh coastal climates. 

Impact: Diverted over 1200 tonnes of plastic from the Indian Ocean since 2018. While also training over 500 coastal waste collectors, boosting local income.

4. Coliba, Cote D’ivoire

Coliba employs machine learning to efficiently sort and process mixed plastics into polymer enhanced asphalt for roads and plastic cement composites for low cost housing. Their strategic partnerships with major stakeholders like Coca-Cola and the Ivorian government have enabled the construction of 15km of plastic roads in Abidjan.

Impact: Recycled over 8000 tonnes of plastic annually across West Africa. While creating over 200 jobs in waste collection and processing with 80% of them being women.

5. EcoNile, Egypt

EconNile’s is revolutionizing the construction industry by converting PET bottles and polybags into interlocking bricks that insulate against heat and resist flooding. Their design allows for rapid assembly, ideal for settlements and informal housing.

Impact: Constructed over 200 flood resistant homes in Sudan and South Sudan. They have also recycled over 600 tonnes of Nile River plastic since 2021.

The Road Ahead

These innovations and solutions exemplify how Africa is turning a crisis into opportunity. The transformation of plastic waste into construction materials is a shift on how we can address environmental and economic challenges. With innovative lab technologies bridging the gap, Africa can turn a major challenge into a catalyst for sustainable development and economic growth. 

The path forward is clear, a future where plastic waste is not a burden but a building block for progressing Africa’s future!

By Aimee Gisore, ATLT Expo