Project Title: Climate Yetu (Our Climate)

Project Overview:

Climate Yetu (Our Climate) is an ongoing project aimed at addressing the global crisis of plastic pollution, with a particular focus on urban areas in low-income countries. The project seeks to combine various strategies, including policy changes, community engagement, research, and technology development, to create sustainable solutions for reducing and eventually eliminating plastic pollution in urban environments. Climate Yetu is being carried out in collaboration with the University of Portsmouth and is committed to working with diverse stakeholders to make a tangible impact.

Project Objectives:

1. Reduce Plastic Consumption: Climate Yetu aims to reduce plastic consumption through policy interventions such as plastic bag bans and fees. By promoting the use of alternative materials and sustainable packaging, the project seeks to lessen the reliance on single-use plastics.
2. Enhance Recycling and Repurposing: The project focuses on improving recycling programs and infrastructure in target urban areas. This involves not only increasing the accessibility of recycling facilities but also raising awareness among residents about the importance of recycling and repurposing plastics.
3. Develop Alternative Materials: Climate Yetu supports research and development efforts to create alternative materials that are eco-friendly and can replace conventional plastics. These innovations aim to provide sustainable alternatives for various applications.
4. Community Engagement: The project actively involves local communities, community activists, and businesses in its initiatives. It seeks to empower communities to take ownership of waste management and adopt sustainable practices.
5. Cross-Border Collaboration: Climate Yetu acknowledges that plastic pollution knows no borders. It addresses the issue of waste importation from high-income countries to low-income countries and promotes cross-border collaboration to combat this problem effectively.

Project Impact:

Climate Yetu recognizes that plastic pollution disproportionately affects low-income countries, especially in urban areas. By focusing on Nairobi, Kenya, and other case study sites, the project aims to:

• Reduce the environmental impact of plastic pollution in urban areas.
• Improve waste management practices in these regions.
• Enhance the quality of life for urban residents by reducing pollution.
• Create economic opportunities through recycling and sustainable materials development.
• Foster international collaboration to combat the global plastic pollution crisis.

Funding Needs:

To achieve its objectives and make a lasting impact, Climate Yetu requires funding support. The funds will be allocated towards:

1. Research and Development: Investment in cutting-edge research and technology development for sustainable materials and recycling processes.
2. Community Outreach and Education: Implementation of awareness campaigns, workshops, and training programs to educate the local population on plastic pollution and sustainable practices.
3. Policy Advocacy: Supporting efforts to advocate for and implement policies that reduce plastic consumption and improve waste management.
4. Infrastructure Development: Expanding recycling facilities and improving waste collection infrastructure in target urban areas.
5. Cross-Border Initiatives: Facilitating collaboration between low-income and high-income countries to address the importation of plastic waste.
6. Project Administration: Ensuring effective project management, monitoring, and evaluation.

Get Involved:

By funding Climate Yetu, you will contribute to a sustainable future free from plastic pollution. Your support will enable us to continue our vital work in low-income urban areas, where the need for sustainable solutions is greatest. Together, we can create cleaner, healthier, and more resilient cities for all.