How UNDP is Tackling Sierra Leone’s Growing Plastic Crisis
Plastic Recycling | 2026-11-04 08:51:41
The initiative aims to strengthen locally developed enterprises that tackle plastic waste while generating employment and supporting sustainable economic growth.
By Paul Ploumis
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.
POLL
What is the primary objective of UNDP's training programme for entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the objective of UNDP's new training programme in Sierra Leone?
The programme aims to help 20 local entrepreneurs develop commercially viable and scalable businesses focused on tackling plastic pollution. It seeks to strengthen existing ventures, improve their operational capabilities and encourage innovative approaches to plastic waste management while generating employment opportunities.
- What does the three-day training programme offer participating entrepreneurs?
The programme provides specialist guidance, practical business exercises, peer-to-peer discussions and networking opportunities. Participants will also receive continued technical assistance after completing the training to address operational difficulties, develop partnerships and explore opportunities to expand their businesses.
- How does the initiative contribute to UNDP's wider sustainability objectives in Africa?
The initiative supports UNDP's broader African strategy to advance circular economy practices, promote sustainable production and consumption, and encourage locally driven solutions to plastic pollution. By supporting businesses that convert discarded plastic into economic value, it also aims to create jobs, improve livelihoods and protect the environment.
