Waste is often perceived as a burden with no practical use. However, in reality, it can be a valuable resource that not only helps protect the environment but also generates income especially for communities willing to explore recycling opportunities.
In Lilongwe, several women are capitalising on this opportunity by collecting used plastic papers and selling them to recycling companies. These companies, in turn, process the waste into new plastic products.
One such woman is Vira Mtawali from Kauma Township in Lilongwe. She has been collecting used plastic papers from roadsides, dumping sites, and other public places. After cleaning the plastics, she sells them to local plastic manufacturing companies. Despite the challenges of filling a 50kg sack with plastic waste, Vira remains committed to her work, as it helps her support her five children.
Environmental expert Mathews Malata notes that Malawi’s recycling industry is still underdeveloped. He stresses the need for deliberate interventions to improve the country’s waste management systems, which could, in turn, foster the growth of circular economies.
Legal Advisor for the Movement for Environmental Action, Titani Chalira, adds that current environmental laws promote recycling of specific plastics. He urges civil society organisations to raise awareness and encourage the public to embrace recycling not just as an environmental necessity but also as a viable business.
Recycling involves transforming waste materials into new, usable products. In the case of plastics, their collection and resale provide a steady, though labour-intensive, stream of income for individuals and families.
What is needed now is a national mindset shift one that views waste not as a nuisance, but as an opportunity to create value, jobs, and a cleaner environment through recycling and innovation.
By Lonjezo Msodoka
