Bricks made out of plastic waste at the CDC Office in Yei, South Sudan
By Andrew Lasu
Plastic pollution is a global crisis that threatens ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Unfortunately, South Sudan is not exempt from the devastating consequences of single-use plastics and non-recyclable waste. The staggering statistics reveal that there are 5.25 trillion pieces of macro and micro-plastic in the ocean, causing harm to marine creatures, with over 100,000 marine animals dying from plastic pollution each year. The situation has led to choked rivers and landfills, resulting in environmental degradation and endangering the lives of both fauna and flora. While governments worldwide are working to address plastic pollution, much more needs to be done.
In Central Equatorial state, the impact of war has further compounded the challenges, breaking the social fabric of communities, especially among the youths, where trust is lacking, and economic opportunities are limited. In response to these pressing issues, the Community Development Centre (CDC), as the lead partner in the environmental protection cluster in Yei, South Sudan, has undertaken extensive research to find local solutions for managing plastic waste. Today, we are excited to announce the launch of our latest initiative: Turning Plastic Waste into Bricks. Our organization firmly believes that plastic materials can play a pivotal role in the circular economy and recycling, creating economic value with minimal environmental damage and ensuring sustainable management of resources.
Driven by our commitment to create positive change and a shared vision of a greener future, we have recognized the urgency of addressing plastic pollution. Rather than viewing plastic waste as an insurmountable problem, we see it as an opportunity to innovate and make a difference. Thus, the idea of transforming non-recyclable plastic waste into durable and sustainable bricks was born. We firmly believe in the power of innovation to tackle complex issues facing our communities and future generations while safeguarding our environment from the dangers of climate change. With this groundbreaking project, we not only address the pressing issue of plastic pollution but also empower local youth and communities with sustainable solutions.
By engaging youths and community members in this initiative through training and involvement, we indirectly contribute to peace-building efforts by fostering trust and promoting social cohesion. Additionally, this project creates economic opportunities for income generation among the youth, further enhancing the quality of life for their communities. At CDC, we are committed to social upliftment, ensuring that every step of the process benefits the people we aim to serve.
“As a result of the need for sustainability, there comes the emergence of turning waste into wealth for the benefit of the population.” – Amana Isaac, Environmentalist and FSL Coordinator (CDC South Sudan)
Our plastic-to-bricks initiative involves a comprehensive and meticulous process. It begins with the collection of non-recyclable plastic waste from various sources, including local communities, businesses, marketplaces, streets, bus parks, and residential areas. This not only helps in cleaning up the environment but also actively involves the community in the project, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Next, the collected plastic waste undergoes sorting, cleaning, and shredding into small pieces. These shredded plastics are then mixed with sand and heated to high temperatures, allowing the formation of robust and resilient bricks. This simple and effective technique offers an eco-friendly alternative to conventional bricks made using clay, which often contributes to deforestation. Moreover, the process helps minimize greenhouse gas emissions, making a valuable contribution to the fight against climate change.
We invite other organizations to join hands with us in this sustainable endeavor. Your donations and sponsorships will help us acquire the necessary equipment, scale up our operations, and reach more communities in need. Together, we can build a greener, cleaner, and more resilient communities for generations to come. CDC firmly believes that small actions can lead to significant changes, and we are committed to driving positive environmental impact, one brick at a time.
Stay tuned for updates on our progress, success stories, and upcoming events on our website and social media channels. For more information or to get involved, please contact us at info@cdc.ngo.
Let’s work together to turn the tide on plastic pollution, create a sustainable future, and uplift communities in South Sudan. Together, we can build a better world for all.
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