UNEP
Low-cost construction materials made of recycled plastic waste and sand is being sustainably manufactured in Kenya by Gjenge Makers.

Young Champions of the Earth: turning plastics into paving in Kenya

26 December 2020
Climate and Environment

A Kenyan entrepreneur is being lauded by the UN for developing a machine that recycles discarded plastic into paving stones for use in construction projects.

UNEP Young Champion of the Earth for 2020 Nzambi Matee. UNEP

Nzambi Matee’s invention not only keeps plastic out of landfill sites, it also offers a cheaper alternative to conventional concrete paving slabs.

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) says every minute, a million plastic bottles are purchased across the world, the majority of which are not recycled.

Nzambi Matee is one of seven innovators recognized as United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Young Champions of the Earth for 2020.

 

 

 

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News Tracker: Past Stories on This Issue

Young Champions of the Earth: mapping clean water in China

25 December 2020
Climate and Environment

A mobile app which tells the inhabitants of rural China if their water is safe to drink, has won a young woman from Beijing a top UN environmental award.

Young Champions of the Earth: Indian’s burning desire for energy

15 December 2020
Climate and Environment

An Indian engineer has been recognized by the United Nations for developing innovative technology which not only produces energy, but which helps to keep the air cleaner and reduce climate change.