We launched Ishara as a mobile app to help individuals recycle plastics and earn rewards. Our goal: make recycling accessible and rewarding for everyone.
As we rolled out the app, we faced logistical challenges and limited impact. Through market research and on-the-ground engagement, we discovered a deeper issue: the entire plastic value chain was fragmented. Waste pickers, aggregators, recyclers, and brands were disconnected, leading to inefficiencies, poor working conditions, and lost economic potential.
We shifted our focus from households to the informal sector — where most plastic recovery actually happens. We began building relationships with waste picker groups and recycling companies, shaping a new strategy.
This work was made possible by partnerships with organizations including Eco-Conscious Citizens, Go To Ghana, and other local collaborators who helped us connect with the people driving plastic recovery on the ground.
In 2025, we are focused on building our first tech-enabled plastic buyback center. This includes piloting fair pricing models, creating safer working conditions, and developing our blockchain-backed tracking system.
We are deepening partnerships with recyclers, waste picker groups, and community leaders — moving from concept to implementation.This phase will help spotlight informal recovery and lay the groundwork for transparent, ethical plastic supply chains.
I come from that place plastic waste ends up; where the “away” in “throw it away” really is. I started Ishara to build a future where plastic waste AND the people behind its collection are valued.
Working at Ishara gives me the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those often overlooked in the pursuit of a circular economy.
At Ishara, we’re driving a massive global revolution—by redefining value, tackling waste, and making sure no one’s left behind. Honestly, there’s no better way I could be using my skills.
My dream has always been to give plastic waste a second life; to protect the environment and biodiversity from plastic pollution. Ishara is just the place to make this dream come true.
Tackling plastic waste with smart, amazing people just made sense. At the end of the day, I get to say I talk trash for a living, and it’s not even a joke!
Transforming Waste Into Opportunity Across Africa
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