Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, grapples with a daunting challenge — generating 100 tonnes of plastic waste daily, with only 23% of it collected. This scenario fuels the global plastic pollution crisis, compounded by challenges like slum dwellings and high youth unemployment. Efforts toward a sustainable future face obstacles, ranging from financial constraints to political complexities in the small West African nation.
In response to this crisis, Sierra Leone has taken a significant step forward with the launch of “Go Circular Week.” The initiative kicked off on Tuesday 20 February at Sport Zone Aberdeen Beach in Freetown, heralding a collaborative effort involving key ministries and supported by World Bank initiatives. This dedicated week aims to tackle the urgent issue of plastic waste and promote circular economy principles turning trash into cash.
Initiatives, including a beach program with Premier Environmental Solutions, aim to turn plastic collection into income-generating activities, extending efforts to hotels and restaurants.
Mary Jalloh, Coordinator of the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDEP), expressed gratitude during the official launch and emphasized the significance of reducing, reusing, and recycling to counter the negative impact of plastic on the country’s economy.
“We must care and do more for the environment. Tackling extreme poverty and improving shared prosperity is directly linked to managing our planet sustainably. Each one of us has a role to play in reducing plastic waste and embracing alternatives for a cleaner future,” stressed Dr. Abdu Muwonge, World Bank Country Manager.
A notable highlight of the event was Wahid Bahsoon, the founder of Premier Environment Solutions LTD, who introduced an innovative technology capable of turning plastic waste into building materials. Bahsoon’s project not only strives to create jobs and contribute to a circular economy but also seeks crucial support from the government and donor agencies.
The Deputy Ministry of Environment, Madam Yema Steven Suva Stevens, shed light on the broader implications of plastic pollution, affecting health, agriculture, marine life, and contributing to climate change. The Circular Week aims to bring stakeholders together for effective collaboration on plastic waste management, with a focus on developing national policies and planning legislation.
The Minister of Tourism, Madam Nabeela Tunis, highlighted the economic significance of tourism and expressed gratitude for collaborative efforts in addressing plastic waste through the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Program. She emphasized the impact of plastic on Sierra Leone’s beauty and tourism potential, urging a reduction in plastic use and the adoption of circular practices.
“Tourism is a driver of the economy and an important pathway for growth in this country. If our beaches, streets, rivers, and towns are littered with plastic, we risk losing the golden opportunity that tourism presents,” warned the Minister of Tourism.
Amira Halaby, a consultant on the Problue project, discussed the week’s focus on strengthening circularity, particularly in the tourism sector. Initiatives include a beach program with Premier Environmental Solutions, aiming to turn plastic collection into an income-generating activity. The pilot involves a shredder, buyback center, and proper disposal methods, with plans to extend these efforts to hotels and restaurants through committed early adopters.
“Today is the launch of the Go Circular Week, aiming to create awareness about plastic pollution and promote circular economy principles. We need to reduce plastic use, recognize its value, and work towards a cleaner and healthier environment,” emphasized Amira.
“Go Circular Week” sets out to instigate positive changes by promoting awareness, reducing plastic usage, and piloting initiatives to transform plastic into valuable resources, fostering a cleaner environment for Sierra Leone’s sustainable development. The speakers and initiatives collectively underscore the transformation of trash into cash, offering hope for a cleaner, economically viable future.
