mbulelo smpofu
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
GWERU’S streets are sparkling brighter this year, thanks to a ground-breaking initiative by young entrepreneurs. They’ve transformed mountains of discarded plastic bottles into dazzling Christmas trees, a project that’s not only brightening the holiday season but also brightening the future of the environment.
The innovative approach not only reduces plastic waste piling up in landfills but also showcases the incredible potential of upcycled art. By transforming trash into treasured decorations, these young innovators are raising awareness about environmental sustainability and inspiring their community to embrace responsible waste management practices.
The young entrepreneurs at Mckingtorch Zimbabwe created a unique plastic bottle tree for the Gweru Mayor’s Christmas lighting party. The initiative aims to reduce plastic waste pollution and promote sustainable shopping practices. The organisation has also partnered with local communities, schools, and organisations to create public space installations from waste.
Made from over 1 600 used plastic containers, the Mayor’s Christmas tree was a highlight during the lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas lights at the town house last week. Co-founder and chief executive officer Charlene Harutizwi said that at Mckingtorch Zimbabwe, they are always exploring innovative ways to address the plastic waste crisis.
“The idea of creating a plastic bottle tree came from our vision to use waste materials creatively while raising awareness about environmental sustainability. Inspired by the original Plastic Waste Bottles Christmas Tree by Mckingtorch Africa, we saw it as an opportunity to engage communities, showcase the potential of upcycled art, and spark conversations around waste management,” she said.
Harutizwi said plans to create many plastic Christmas trees to sell to the public.
“For now, we have created one tree for the Mayor’s Christmas lighting party as a pilot project. Based on community feedback and interest, we plan to scale this initiative by creating more trees for events, public spaces, and awareness campaigns in Zimbabwe,” she said.
Harutizwi explained that the cost depends on the size, design, and materials required for the tree.
“On average, creating one tree ranges between $30 and $500, factoring in collection, cleaning, and assembly of the plastic bottles, as well as labour and logistics. However, we aim to make these projects cost-effective and impactful for our clients and the community,” she said.
Besides being a viable project, Harutizwi said it addresses issues related to waste management and keeping the environment clean.
“Yes, it is. Beyond being a creative project, the plastic bottle tree initiative addresses critical environmental challenges, such as plastic waste pollution, while promoting art and sustainability.
“It’s a unique model that combines environmental advocacy with economic opportunities. By collaborating with local governments, organisations, and communities, it is a scalable and impactful business that also creates green jobs and raises awareness,” she said.
Harutizwi let slip that it is always satisfying to turn trash into treasure.
“There are about 1 622 bottles on this Christmas tree for the mayor. Nine people, including seven volunteers, worked on this,” she said.
Harutizwi noted that they make recycled products including footwear, bags, belts, jewellery, plastic bottle bins, hats, mats, and receptacles.
Gweru Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko commended Mckingtorch for embarking on waste management programmes for the benefit of the community.
“This is a welcome programme that benefits the community. It creates employment while keeping the environment clean, and therefore, the young brains behind this need to be commended,” he said.
Councillor Chivhoko encouraged residents to have at least two litter bins — one for recyclable plastic and the other for other waste — to improve waste management at home.
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