projects

Crafting future shelters from past waste

Ongoing
A pile of discarded plastic sheeting from temporary shelters lies in an alleyway
Programme
UNHCR Innovation Incubator
Fund
Environment and Climate Action Innovation Fund | Incubator
Start Date
Total Project Cost
USD 126,069
Country
Lebanon
Project Team
UNHCR Lebanon , René Moawad Foundation (RMF)

Challenge

Lebanon hosts more than 46,000 tents for Syrian refugees, 60% of which are reached by UNHCR's annual shelter kit distribution. Short lifespans of shelter materials drive financial and environmental costs, exacerbated by poor waste management, which can also spark tensions.

Solution

Creating more durable shelter materials and enhancements for structures from recycled plastic sheeting, testing recycling methods to optimize durability. A local exchange and processing system designed with communities will reduce emissions and implement a waste management plan.

Impact

Enhanced durability and sustainability of shelters in Northern Lebanon while also reducing waste, improving accessibility for refugees with disabilities, and developing livelihoods opportunities.

Project impact to date

1
plastic recycling process for recycled doors optimized
1
hollow structure for beams successfully tested, paving the way for feasible scaling
3
municipalities interested in collaborating & including recycling of host community waste

Other information

Interest expressed by local municipalities could pave a way to sustainability.

Additional testing is underway to create recycled components that enhance the durability of shelters.