Accelerating Plastic Reduction Program

Unilever is inviting startups, students, micro-small-medium enterprises, and individuals to join its groundbreaking “Accelerating Plastic Reduction” program. Launching in May, 2023 in Pakistan, this program offers a unique opportunity to propose solutions to reduce plastic waste and make a positive impact on the environment. This is a one-of-its-kind chance to be part of the solution and make a real difference in the fight against plastic waste. This is an open invitation for working together towards a cleaner, more sustainable future!

The program, which will launch in Pakistan in May 2023, will focus on two key areas, including conducting research to understand the challenges of the informal recycling and repurposing economy and an acceleration program to develop and scale enterprises in the plastic recycling and collection business.

Through the “Accelerating Plastic Reduction” program, Unilever aims to build an ecosystem that resolves plastic pollution by working with the informal sector, accelerating the growth of organizations in the plastic collection and recycling business, and identifying sustainable interventions. The program will also offer mentoring, capacity-building, and networking opportunities to the selected teams.

Speaking at the partnership, Amir Paracha, CEO Unilever Pakistan shared, “We are excited to partner with SEED in this journey of creating a circular economy. At Unilever, we believe that our business can only thrive if the communities and ecosystems in which we operate are also thriving. By investing in innovative and sustainable practices, we are not only contributing to the well-being of Pakistani, but also to the long-term health of our planet. We look forward to working together with SEED to drive positive impact and create a more sustainable future for all.”

Adding, Shaista Ayesha, CEO at SEED said, ” SEED is proud to partner with Unilever in this initiative to reduce plastic waste and create a more sustainable future. By providing access to mentorship, capacity building, and financial assistance, we hope to accelerate the growth of enterprises in the plastic collection and recycling business, while also identifying sustainable interventions. We believe that by working with startups, students, micro-small-medium enterprises, and individuals, we can build a diverse ecosystem that fosters innovation and positive impact on the environment. We look forward to the positive impact this program will have on Pakistan and beyond.” Unilever’s “Accelerating Plastic Reduction” program is part of its commitment to reducing plastic waste, which includes halving its use of virgin plastic and helping to collect and process more plastic packaging than it sells by 2025. The program will enable Unilever to gain an understanding of current market developments, trends, and technologies in the space while building capacity, creating success stories, and making a positive impact on the environment