Estifanos, Betelhem, and Friends Business Company – NABU Ethiopia

Investing in Impact

P4G has awarded the partnership about US $104,000 in grant funding. 

Plastic waste is a major global issue, harming ecosystems, human health and essential resources. Despite growing awareness, existing solutions often fall short due to high costs, limited innovation and accessibility challenges. The Estifanos, Betelhem, and Friends Business Company – NABU Ethiopia partnership is committed to reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainable waste management. By integrating advanced recycling technologies and community engagement, the partnership aims to enhance plastic waste collection, processing and circular economy practices.

The Estifanos, Betelhem, and Friends Business Company produces essential recycled plastic products, including geomembranes and polyethylene tubes. Geomembranes serve as impermeable liners for landfills, reservoirs and wastewater treatment, preventing water leakage and supporting irrigation. Polyethylene tubes aid in tree seedling growth, supporting afforestation efforts, though their non-biodegradable nature requires proper recycling. Demand for both products is high, particularly among smallholder farmers in Bahir Dar and surrounding areas, making the startup a vital part in food security and sustainable agriculture.

NABU Ethiopia is dedicated to conserving biodiversity, restoring habitats and promoting sustainable resource management. NABU Ethiopia will collaborate with government institutions to strengthen plastic waste management and recycling. The partnership will coordinate waste collection, organize community clean-ups, encourage local businesses to incorporate recycled plastics, and lead workshops and awareness campaigns on recycling and waste management. The partnership will also establish a comprehensive recycling framework that benefits both the environment and the local economy.

During the partnership period, the Estifanos, Betelhem, and Friends Business Company plans to scale up operations, targeting an annual collection of 800 tons of waste to recycle 667 tons into geomembranes and 78 tons into seedling bags.

Over the next five years, the startup plans to expand plastic waste collection from 650 tons in the first year to 11,963 tons by year five while increasing production of biodegradable seedling bags from 50 to 89 tons and geomembranes from 500 to 897 tons. This growth trajectory is expected to drive profitability, with projected net earnings rising from $106,888 in the first year to $213,539 by year five, ensuring long-term financial and environmental sustainability.

The partnership comprises the following partners: Estifanos, Betelhem, and Friends Business Company (lead business partner); NABU Ethiopia (lead administrative partner).