Did you know that it's possible to recycle plastic yourself?

Ever heard of Precious Plastic?

Precious Plastic is an initiative that empowers anyone to recycle their own plastic waste. The Precious Plastic community has open-sourced the recycling process by providing detailed instructions on how to build plastic recycling machines such as injection molders, extrusion machines, and shredders.

Beyond offering technical guidance, the community connects plastic recycling centers and individuals interested in this approach worldwide.

In Kenya, the Flipflopi Initiative has taken the Precious Plastic method even further by recycling plastic waste into a boat — one that can actually sail the seas.

The boat navigates oceans and lakes across East Africa, raising awareness about plastic pollution. It brings international attention to the issue while engaging East Africans in creative ways to repurpose plastic waste. The project also generates employment opportunities for artisans who transform waste plastic into useful products such as furniture.

The Flipflopi Initiative also plays a role in influencing policy. They are helping to push for a ban on all unnecessary single-use plastics in Kenya and across East Africa. In collaboration with the Africa Legal Network, Flipflopi has published a draft bill that will soon be tabled at the East African Legislative Assembly. Meanwhile, they have also launched a grassroots campaign to mobilize public support.