Increased regulation and trade bans are a growing threat to the global circular economy, according to former BIR president and founder of the Global Recycling Foundation Ranjit Baxi.
‘The danger is that the circular economy becomes regionalised due to regulatory controls and protectionism,’ Baxi said on Global Recycling Day (18 March). ‘Instead we must work together to allow free and fair global trade as we are contributing to global environmental benefits.’
Global Recycling Day is marked each year by the Recycling Heroes Competition, designed to highlight innovative recycling and sustainability initiatives.
Video contest
Participants were invited to submit short videos showcasing efforts to promote recycling, sustainability and waste reduction within their communities, schools or businesses. Entries were judged based on creativity, clarity of message and impact.
The 20 winning entries have each received US$ 500 (EUR 460) and are featured in a global press release. Furthermore, the top 50 entries will be showcased across GRF’s global platforms over the next 12 months, amplifying their reach and impact.
Fundamental principles
‘We need to champion the three Rs – reduce, reuse, recycle – as fundamental principles,’ Baxi adds. ‘I am heartened by the number of entries focusing on tackling plastic waste, as eliminating single-use plastics remains critical.’
He also underscored the need for harmonised carbon credit methodologies to make recycling efforts financially viable. World leaders are being urged to prioritise recycling at COP30 in Brazil.
Nigeria to The Philippines
The winning entries reflect a diverse range of recycling solutions worldwide, from recycled plastic skateboards in Portugal to waste-to-energy projects in Ghana. Standout initiatives include:
*Repartly (Germany): a company using robotics to refurbish and reuse e-waste components.
*Toys Up (Netherlands): a circular economy initiative ensuring used toys become the new standard.
*GreenLite Solutions (Nigeria): turning discarded plastic into products such as eco-friendly school bags.
*Clean Circle Limited (Cameroon): combating plastic pollution through the Plastic Money Community project.
*Going Green Dubai (UAE): a youth-driven movement focusing on e-waste recycling.
*Ecoact (Tanzania): transforming ocean plastic and e-waste into durable plastic timbers.
*Safisana (Ghana): upcycling waste into renewable energy and organic fertilizers, benefiting more than 80 000 people annually.
*Kaagaz Project (India): a school-led paper recycling initiative promoting sustainability awareness among students.
*Robinsons Malls (Philippines): encouraging sustainable consumer habits through their Everyday for a Greener Future programme.
Other winners come from the USA, Uganda, Indonesia, South Africa and Trinidad & Tobago, reflecting a global commitment to sustainability.
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