DILI, 17 february 2023 (TATOLI) – Over 15 Plastic Upcycling Alliance benefited the project of the United States Agency International Development and Mercy Corps in the recycling and upcycling of plastic waste in Timor – Leste.
The acting Director of USAID, Rebecca Robinson said USAID in Timor – Leste had donated $ 900,000 to the Mercy Corps, to empower the local business to recycle and upcycle plastic waste in Timor – Leste.
“Over 15 Plastic Upcycling Alliance businesses were supported in the product of research, development, and marketing. As a result, 31 products were developed and creating income, generating employment and entrepreneur opportunities,” Rebecca Robinson told TATOLI in Timor – Plaza, Dili.
In addition, as part of the collaboration to promote the circular economy, the Plastic Upcycling Alliance and the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce and Industry (MTCI) work with the Dili Municipality to implement the first demonstration project.
“From the first demonstration project over 3,400 pavers and curbstones made from recycled wasted were fabricated and installed – that ‘s the equivalent of nearly 300,000 discarded plastic bottles, together we are proud to help advance recycling and upcycling technology and develop the new partnership in Timor – Leste,” Rebecca Robinson said.
At the same place, the Country Director of Mercy Corps Jules Keane said investing in local upcycling and recycling groups is an essential element to ensuring that it continues to be economically feasible to collect, sort, and reprocess material in Timor – Leste.
“This is guided by our fundamental commitment to investing in the Timorese people who make up the bedrock of our relationship,’’ she said.
Meanwhile, the Director of Sanitation and Hygiene of Dili Municipality, Armindo Moniz, appreciated USAID and Mercy Corps for the project to empower the local business through the Plastic Upcycling Alliance to recycle plastic waste and sell it in the market to recover families’ economy and reduce the plastic waste in Timor – Leste.
“Every day Dili Municipality produces 200 tons of rubbish. hopefully, this project can help reduce the plastic waste in Dili Municipalities,’’ he concluded.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Nelia B.
