Founded in 2005, Plastica is an environmental and social innovation that works mainly with recycling in Volgograd, Russia. It is one of the many inspiring initiatives part of the 2014 Unreasonable Launchpad and thus is still in its expansion position.
Perhaps obviously by its name, Plastica works mainly with plastic waste, a type of waste that takes hundreds and hundreds of years to deteriorate. Essentially, there is no coming back from the way the people on the planet have been producing and dumping this kind of waste. Still, it's not cause for apathy as Plastica has various programs, systems and products targeted at waste utilization.
It is great to see more social enterprises coming out of Russia.
Contact Information
Plastica on Ashoka Changemakers
Recycling Education Programs
Plastica Teaches Russian Citizens to Take Part in Environmental Good
Trend Themes
1. Recycling Education Programs - Educational programs and initiatives focused on recycling and waste management in local communities can lead to greater environmental awareness and participation.
2. Waste Utilization Products - Companies that create innovative products made from recycled materials can not only reduce waste but also inspire sustainability in consumers.
3. Social Enterprises - Socially responsible businesses, like Plastica, demonstrate the ability to balance profit with sustainable and ethical practices.
Industry Implications
1. Environmental Services - Recycling education programs could benefit the environmental services industry by promoting sustainable waste management practices.
2. Plastic Manufacturing - Developing waste utilization products can disrupt traditional plastic manufacturing industries and create more sustainable alternatives.
3. Social Entrepreneurship - The growth of social enterprises presents a promising new industry in the business world, as consumers and investors increasingly prioritize sustainability and corporate responsibility.