Repurposing plastic for reduced pollution and healthier settlements
Challenge
Plastic sheets distributed to Lebanon’s tented settlements are often layered thickly to reinforce shelter roofs. Old sheets that destabilize shelters should be removed, replaced, and responsibly disposed of, but local recycling options are scarce and limited resources constrain options for maintenance and settlement improvements.
Solution
Remove and replace old sheets in Northern Lebanon, while stabilizing and reinforcing structures. Retired sheets collected and sold to local recyclers to help cover costs. Test different methods to process plastic into useful, necessary items and train residents on their production, creating livelihood opportunities.
Impact
Improved shelters for at least 300 households. Income generated thanks to a recycling profit of 80 USD per tonne of plastic. Livelihoods boosted due to capacity-building activities and hiring for labor needs. Useful infrastructural materials more readily available, and a viable plastic recycling system established.
Project impact
Other information
UNHCR, in partnership with local actors, established a plastic processing workshop locally to undertake the recycling closer to the settlements. The workshop will continue testing further improvements and items and scale the project's reach.