Young people in Zimbabwe are being encouraged to explore plastic recycling as a viable business opportunity, as climate entrepreneurship gains momentum.
Speaking on Ilihlo Lasemaphandleni, a programme hosted by Skyz Metro FM in partnership with Community Podium, climate entrepreneur Gugulethu Hlabangana said the effects of climate change were opening up new economic prospects, particularly in waste management.
“Climate change has exposed a lot of business opportunities, especially around waste,” she said, noting that more people were already earning a living from collecting recyclable materials such as plastic bottles.
She said recycling offered both environmental and financial benefits, with an established market for processed materials.
According to Ms Hlabangana, some small-scale collectors are already supplying industries that are shifting towards recycled inputs.
“There are organisations that are buying the material once it is processed,” she said. “Companies producing items like pipes are now opting for recycled plastic instead of creating new material, which means the market is already there.”
She described waste collection as a practical entry point for young entrepreneurs, as it requires little to no start-up capital.
“A great starting point is waste. You won’t run out of business because waste is everywhere, in residential areas and central business districts, and the raw materials are free,” she said.
Beyond collection and processing, Hlabangana urged young people to think creatively about adding value to waste. Products such as jewellery, clothing and accessories made from recycled materials were gaining popularity, particularly among international tourists, she said.
“You can create earrings, skirts, bangles and other products. There is strong appreciation, especially from visitors from other countries,” she added.
However, she said social attitudes remained a barrier, with some young people reluctant to engage in waste-related work.
“The craft demands very low capital, but there is still stigma. Pride is one of the challenges we are facing,” she said.
Hlabangana also encouraged youths to attend conferences and expos, and to join climate-focused organisations in order to build networks and access more opportunities.
As climate concerns continue to grow, she said, the shift towards recycling and sustainable business models was likely to accelerate, offering new pathways for young entrepreneurs willing to adapt.
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