This research project explores opportunities for EcoWorld to expand their product portfolio beyond mere recycling. The initial goal was to investigate potential products that could improve the living conditions of local communities in Watamu, Kenya, using collected plastic waste. EcoWorld, a local non-profit organization, aims to ignite the plastic recycling economy in Watamu by creating dynamic value waste streams and empowering women and youth as drivers of this economy. However, they face challenges in moving from recycling to circular design practices and in identifying suitable products for the local communities.

The research begins by defining the local context and identifying key stakeholders. It reveals a significant plastic waste problem in Watamu and inadequate living conditions for the local communities. While there is a growing understanding of the potential of collecting and recycling plastic waste, a knowledge gap hinders progress towards more circular practices. The research clarifies what circular practices mean in the local context, centering on creating products from plastic waste that offer enhanced social benefits to end-users while managing the entire lifecycle of these products. It explores EcoWorld’s potential to build a business around this approach and develops a framework for integrating circular practices into local product production. Integrating local end-users into the design process emerged as a key opportunity to create value, understanding, and awareness, ensuring proper waste management and slowing down the resource loop.
A four-week field research in Watamu engaged these various stakeholders in the design process. Observations and interviews with EcoWorld employees highlighted the potential for new technologies to move beyond recycling and the openness to raising community awareness. Creative sessions with local communities provided insights into their perspectives on plastic pollution and their needs for improving their living conditions. While there was interest in using plastic waste materials, trust in these materials for structural improvements, like bricks for houses, was lacking. However, there was significant interest in improving household cleanliness through storage solutions.

Based on these insights, a cabinet design was developed during the design phase together with the local end users. The design focuses on practicality and simplicity to fit the local market, emphasizing functionality and ease of use. The production process was kept simple with minimal tool requirements to ensure feasibility for local production at EcoWorld. The design aligns with the established circular framework, ensuring proper handling of the product at its end-of-life, thereby slowing down the resource loop.

Finally, a transition model was created for EcoWorld’s future growth. An implementation plan for the current product includes the necessary tools and machines for successful production. The transition model is based on building trust among end-users as they become familiar with using plastic waste materials for products and actively participate in the emerging economy. This involvement will enable EcoWorld to expand their product portfolio further and focus on proper waste management in the future, creating jobs and income for women and youth in Watamu, igniting the local plastic recycling economy.