Beverage giant SOLIBRA has officially unveiled its ECO BOX initiative, a pioneering effort designed to intensify the fight against plastic contamination and foster a sustainable circular economy within the Treichville commune in Côte d’Ivoire. The launch, coinciding with World No Plastic Bag Day on July 3, 2026, marks a significant step towards environmental preservation in the region.
Treichville was specifically chosen for this vital undertaking due to its significant daily output of plastic refuse. This waste frequently chokes drainage systems and compromises essential sanitation infrastructure, posing considerable environmental and public health challenges. In response, ECO BOX aims to transform these discarded materials into valuable resources through a meticulously structured collection and recycling framework.
The ECO BOX project thrives on a strategic partnership involving SOLIBRA, the local Fondation J’Adore de Treichville, and BIRWAST, a firm specializing in plastic waste recycling. This powerful synergy aims to elevate waste management standards, safeguard the urban environment, and cultivate new economic opportunities for the local population.
To facilitate the immediate commencement of operations, essential equipment was distributed to the operational teams. This included six robust wheelbarrows, a dedicated collection tricycle, 80 trash bags, twelve rakes, as well as gloves, shovels, and traditional brooms, providing the necessary tools for effective waste collection.
Through the ECO BOX program, partners are committed to achieving several key objectives. These include the gradual elimination of plastic waste from drainage channels to mitigate flood risks, the creation of employment opportunities for young residents of the commune as collection agents and drivers, and the valorization of collected plastics through efficient recycling processes.
A critical component of the project is public engagement and awareness. Collection agents will undertake the crucial task of educating residents, encouraging proper waste sorting practices, and cultivating a community-wide culture of cleanliness and environmental responsibility within Treichville.
The inaugural ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting event, officially marking the operational start of the ECO BOX project. This was followed by the ceremonial handover of keys for the first collection tricycle to one of the agents, who will soon be navigating the streets of Treichville, diligently collecting plastic waste.
