OmniBSIC partners 2 orgs to launch plastic recovery initiative in schools

OmniBSIC Bank, in partnership with the Institute of Industrial Research (IIR) of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Ocean Tribe Foundation, has launched a new initiative in Accra to foster responsible plastic waste management among students. The project, titled ‘Recovering Plastics for Industry and Sustainable Environment,’ will be implemented across five senior high schools: St John’s Grammar School, O’Reilly Senior High School, Accra High School, Armed Forces Senior High Technical School, and Odorgonno Senior High School.

Funded by OmniBSIC Bank as part of its Corporate Social Investment, the initiative seeks to transform the perception of plastic waste from a mere nuisance into a valuable industrial resource. Mr. George Ocansey Tetteh, Divisional Head and Executive Committee Member of OmniBSIC Bank, emphasized this shift during the launch, stating, “For years, we have called this waste. Today, we are saying it is a misplaced industrial resource.”

The project will introduce Green Technology Clubs in the participating schools to educate students on environmental stewardship and encourage innovation through a Plastic Innovation Challenge. A booklet titled ‘Plastics, Waste and Management for Teens’ has also been launched to enhance environmental awareness among young people. Dedicated plastic collection cages will be installed in the schools, accompanied by training for students and teachers on waste segregation, cleaning, and storage.

Dr. Richard Bayitse, Deputy Director of CSIR-IIR, hailed the initiative as a practical solution to Ghana's environmental challenges, highlighting the potential of schools to drive the nation's circular economy agenda. Dr. Boniface Yeboah Antwi, a Senior Research Scientist at CSIR-IIR, revealed that plastic waste, primarily from sachet water and bottles, constitutes about 60 percent of the waste generated in the selected schools, amounting to over 44,000 pieces daily. He warned of the long-term consequences of improper waste management, urging immediate action to prevent plastics from polluting landfills and water bodies.

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Walk into any school compound during break time and you will see discarded water sachets, bottles and food wrappers. For years, we have called this waste. Today, we are saying it is a misplaced industrial resource.