Since its inception in 2017, The Litterboom Project (TLP) has focused on protecting our oceans and environment, targeting plastic waste in innovative and impactful ways. By strategically placing litter booms along river systems, the project intercepts floating plastics before they reach the ocean, addressing one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. However, as TLP has grown, its mission has evolved to include a vital secondary focus: empowering individuals through meaningful work and skills development in the waste management space. This dual impact on both people and the environment is transforming lives while safeguarding our planet.
For many participants, joining TLP is their first formal work experience, offering not only an income but also a sense of purpose and belonging. Participants in river teams, coastal cleaning crews, and waste management roles gain valuable skills while contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment. Beyond the practical benefits, the dignity and self-worth derived from stable work improve their social standing and foster confidence in their abilities. As individuals grow in their roles, they often find new pathways to opportunity, transitioning to higher positions or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures in the waste economy.
Many participants demonstrate exceptional potential, progressing to leadership roles or transitioning into complementary fields such as wastepreneurship, where they can apply their skills to entrepreneurial ventures.
Sne Dladla’s story is a shining example of this growth. Starting as a River Warden, Sne quickly impressed her team with her communication skills and work ethic. Through wastepreneur training and a commitment to self-improvement, she transitioned into a key administrative role, becoming an indispensable part of TLP’s operations. Her journey reflects the transformative power of offering individuals the right opportunities and support.
The successful pilot of the Wastepreneur project attracted the attention of the Mr P Foundation, which has since partnered with TLP to support the mission of reducing pollution, while simultaneously impacting community members, by enabling them to be self sufficient, and create their own businesses and become entrepreneurs in a space where it is desperately needed. After the successful completion of their Wastepreneur training, employees are able to create their own products from recycled materials which they can then sell, enabling them to look after their families and have a broader community impact.
To date, 35 TLP participants have claimed over 180 Alison certificates in entrepreneurship, budgeting, community development and environmental sustainability through additional opportunities that have been unlocked through The Good Academy, an offspring of The Good Economy, a Brownie Points initiative in partnership with The Social Employment Fund.
“Brownie Points is proud to have The Litterboom Project as one of our ten SEF partners who are stepping up to create meaningful impact, and we are so excited to see the TLP team of environmental champions empowering themselves with micro accreditations” says Pascale du Toit, CEO of Brownie Points.
The Litterboom Project is an NPC, with PBO status, that relies heavily on the support of the local communities, business sector and general public to implement and maintain its operations throughout the country. A crucial first step of our plastic pollution prevention strategy is to work with reclaimers, who are the backbone of recycling in South Africa. Whilst we cannot recycle our way out of this problem, this offers an economic opportunity to individuals within informal settlements around South Africa.
“We believe that whilst interception of plastic pollution in the environment is vital, there should be investment made into land based solutions as well. These should include improved waste management systems, education and innovation. In order for this to be successful we believe in a coordination between Municipalities, private sector and of course plastic producers, in an effort to simultaneously reduce the volumes of single use plastic, create integrated waste management plans and identify sustainable financial models around the implementation of these activities.” – CEO | Cameron Service
The Litterboom Project’s innovative approach showcases that environmental and social challenges are deeply interconnected and that addressing both can lead to profound, lasting change. As TLP continues to grow, its vision of cleaner environments and empowered communities remains steadfast. Through partnerships, innovation, and a focus on people, The Litterboom Project is proving that sustainable change is not only possible but essential for a better future.
If this cause is something that resonates with you, we have a number of different ways in which you can get involved and support the project visit them online at www.thelitterboomproject.com