Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is taking a major step towards environmental stewardship with the soon-to-be-launched, state-of-the-art recycling plant. This facility, now 80% complete, will revolutionise waste management by processing glass, metal, and plastics, preventing their accumulation, and transforming them into reusable materials in collaboration with licensed recyclers.
The need for such a facility arises from the substantial waste generated by tourism, staff activities, and construction projects within the conservancy. To address this challenge, and with the invaluable support of donors Tracy Doyle and the Youssef-Warren Foundation, Lewa is implementing strategies to minimise its environmental impact and optimise resource utilisation.
One of the plant’s standout innovations is the repurposing of recycled glass as ballast. Instead of ending up in landfills, crushed glass is now utilised in various construction and infrastructure projects across Lewa. This practical application not only reduces waste but also decreases the need for externally sourced materials, significantly cutting the conservancy’s carbon emissions.
The plant’s metal processing operations involve sorting, cleaning, and preparing materials for recycling. Meanwhile, plastic waste is meticulously categorised by type before being sent for transformation into reusable forms, ensuring responsible and efficient repurposing.
“By adhering to international best practices and implementing robust recycling streams, we ensure valuable materials are given a second life. Guest facilities and resident staff can drop off recyclable materials, which are then sorted and processed for reuse. The plant not only minimises waste but also creates employment opportunities,” says Nancy Kimani, Operations Administrative Officer, highlighting the plant’s broader impact.
