In the bustling heart of Nairobi, a remarkable force for change has emerged, captivating hearts and igniting a sense of urgency to address climate change. Meet Pure Planet Recyclers, an organization that’s not only making a difference in the fight against environmental degradation but is also touching lives in profound ways.
The Birth of a Green Dream:
Pure Planet was founded by a passionate couple, Richard and his wife Monica. Their journey began not just with a desire to tackle plastic waste but with a burning passion to save the environment and uplift their community. The company has created a ripple effect of positivity in Nairobi by generating 14 direct jobs and over 400 indirect jobs for women and youth, addressing critical social issues such as unemployment and gender inequality. This story isn’t just about waste; it’s about people – the dreamers, the doers, and the difference-makers.
A Ray of Hope: Kendi’s Story
One such story that embodies Pure Planet’s mission is that of Kendi, a young woman who had once struggled to find stable employment in the bustling city. The uncertainty of life weighed heavily on her shoulders until she found a lifeline with Pure Planet. Kendi secured a permanent job with the company, working tirelessly to transform plastic waste into valuable resources.
Kendi’s journey from unemployment to job security is a testament to the tangible impact that Pure Planet creates in people’s lives. Her newfound stability doesn’t just mean a paycheck; it means hope, dignity, and a chance to dream bigger.
Urgency in the Face of Climate Change:
Kenya’s commitment to environmental sustainability is exemplified by the 2017 ban on single-use plastic bags, a groundbreaking move that garnered international acclaim. According to the National Environmental Management Authority, NEMA, an impressive 80% of the public has complied with this ban. In 2020, the ban was extended to include single-use plastics in protected areas like parks and forests.
However, while the ban on plastic bags has been a notable success, it has not fully resolved Kenya’s struggle with pollution. Many other forms of plastics, including bottles, rubbish bags, and takeaway containers, remain a concern.
Pure Planet Recyclers play a pivotal role in addressing this challenge by sorting and recycling a substantial portion of older and industrial plastics, including PET bottles from large manufacturers. Our mission is to support these companies in establishing robust recycling programs, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future for Kenya and beyond.
A Glimpse of Tomorrow:
As the Africa Climate Summit unfolds in Nairobi, one key takeaway that aligns seamlessly with Pure Planet’s mission is the strong emphasis on circular economy initiatives. The summit underscores the importance of transforming waste into valuable resources and reducing environmental pollution, mirroring Pure Planet’s commitment to recycling plastic waste, creating employment opportunities, and engaging communities.
As the summit highlighted the significance of circular economy principles, Pure Planet’s work stands as a prime example of how innovative solutions can drive sustainable change in our cities and communities.
The future they envision is not just a dream; it’s an achievable reality, waiting for more dreamers and doers to come forward, to join their mission, and to be part of the solution. We are so proud to have Pure Planet in our Kua Ventures Portfolio