When Plastic Waste Fetches Money

An association of disabled people in Douala produces baskets, caps, table mats and key holders from the waste.

Plastic litters the environment more than any other waste. To reduce the waste from the streets and make money, an association of handicapped persons in Douala has resorted to give a second life to used plastics. Members take time off to clear the streets of used plastic, disinfect, clean and shred them into long pieces. These are then used to knit bags, caps, baskets, table mats, key holders and wallets, among others.

Association President and retired civil servant, Marie Louis Noubissi, said they are development partners since they create wealth at their level. The young association, mostly during cultural activities and other events, takes home at least 20,000 FCFA. It also produces on order, hiring young boys to collect sufficient plastic for the job. A lady’s cap costs from 2,500 FCFA to 3,000 FCFA, baskets sell for between 1,500 FCFA and 2,000 FCFA; wh...