UNDP Expands Efforts to Combat Plastic Pollution in Sierra Leone

Plastic Recycling | 2026-11-04 05:08:01 | By Paul Ploumis

The initiative aims to strengthen locally developed enterprises that tackle plastic waste while generating employment and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Summary

UNDP Launches Training to Strengthen Plastic Waste Businesses
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a three-day training programme for 20 entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone under its Global Plastics Innovation Programme (GPIP). The initiative aims to help locally developed businesses transform plastic pollution solutions into commercially viable and scalable ventures.
Programme Offers Business Guidance and Continued Technical Support
The training combines specialist guidance, practical business exercises, peer discussions and networking opportunities. Participants will also receive continued technical assistance to overcome operational challenges, secure investment and establish partnerships needed to expand their businesses.
Initiative Supports Circular Economy and Green Job Creation
Funded by the United Nations Peace and Development Trust Fund, the programme forms part of UNDP's broader African strategy to promote circular economy practices and sustainable production. It seeks to convert plastic waste into economic opportunities while supporting employment, improved livelihoods and environmental protection.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a three-day training programme to help 20 entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone turn plastic pollution solutions into commercially viable and scalable businesses.

The selected participants are part of the Global Plastics Innovation Programme (GPIP), supported by funding from the United Nations Peace and Development Trust Fund. The initiative aims to strengthen locally developed enterprises that tackle plastic waste while generating employment and supporting sustainable economic growth.

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The training combines specialist guidance, practical business exercises, peer discussions and networking opportunities. Participants will be offered continued technical assistance, even after completion of the programme. All help will be provided to address operational challenges and expand their business ventures. It must be noted that several ventures are reportedly struggling to secure investment and enter new partnerships to expand their operations.

UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Sierra Leone Kevin Petrini highlighted the role of local entrepreneurship and community leadership in tackling plastic pollution. He noted that converting discarded materials into economic value could create jobs, improve livelihoods and support environmental protection.

The initiative forms part of UNDP's wider African strategy to promote circular economy practices, encourage sustainable production and consumption, promote locally driven solutions to plastic pollution and generate employment opportunities.