A case study on Nzambi Matee’s innovative approach to recycling plastic waste into durable pavers.
Nzambi Matee founded Gjenge Makers in Nairobi, Kenya, with a revolutionary idea: turn plastic waste into building materials that are stronger, lighter, and more affordable than concrete.
The Innovation
Gjenge’s process combines plastic waste with sand to create interlocking pavers and bricks. The result is a product 5-7 times stronger than concrete, with the added benefit of diverting tons of plastic from landfills.
Impact
- Over 500 tons of plastic waste recycled
- Created employment for 100+ workers
- Reduced construction costs by 30%
- Won the UN Young Champions of the Earth Award