Ocean Plastic Forum is proud to announce that we have received funding from Danida Green Business Partnerships (DGBP) for our new initiative, From Beach to Big Bags (FBBB). The project, in partnership with Gleco A/S, Desmi Ro-Clean, and Kabadiwalla Connect, is setting up an economically sustainable value chain for recycled plastic in Chennai, India.
The goal? To transform plastic waste into valuable industrial big bags containing 30% recycled polypropylene (rPP) while empowering local communities and reducing plastic pollution in oceans and waterways.
From Plastic Pollution to Valuable Resources
The FBBB project aims to create a value chain for recycled polypropylene (rPP). The material originates from two primary sources:
- Land-based plastic waste collected by the informal waste sector
- Ocean-bound plastic captured by a waste barrier from Desmi Ro-Clean
The collected plastic is integrated into a value chain where it becomes a resource for the production of large industrial big bags. Kabadiwalla Connect ensures that waste collection is conducted in a way that supports both social and environmental goals. The traceability and quality of the materials are documented so that the recycled plastic can be certified and used in production.
After processing the material is sent to Gleco A/S, where it is incorporated into the manufacturing of big bags. The project aims to deliver at least 20 tons of certified rPP for production.
A Sustainable & Inclusive Business Model
The project combines environmental protection with social responsibility by integrating the informal waste sector into a structured and fair value chain. This ensures better working conditions and economic benefits for waste collectors, who currently operate under challenging conditions. To improve the quality of life for these workers, the project also includes social initiatives such as health insurance and occupational safety improvements.
“This project is a great example of how international value chain collaborations can drive real change. By combining the expertise of each partner, we can ensure that significant amounts of plastic waste are recovered from coastal areas and integrated into scalable business models that support the circular economy.” says Thomas Alstrup, Head of Secretariat at Ocean Plastic Forum.
Strong Global Partnerships
The project has a strong international dimension. Desmi Ro-Clean A/S is implementing its advanced waste barriers in Chennai’s waterways, while Kabadiwalla Connect manages waste collection logistics and ensures traceability and certification of recycled materials. Gleco A/S will use the certified rPP in their production of big bags, demonstrating the potential for a commercially viable model where recycled plastic becomes a sought-after resource.
The goal is to document an economically sustainable model where:
- The final sale price of big bags remains competitive.
- Barrier systems can be financed through the value of the collected plastic.
- Local waste collectors achieve improved living conditions.
The project runs from January 2025 to June 2026.
This initiative is a maturation project, laying the foundation for a large-scale implementation in the future. The goal is to test and refine the value chain, ensuring that all elements – from collection to final product – function efficiently and sustainably. By demonstrating the viability of using recycled rPP in big bags, the project will provide the blueprint for a full-scale commercial rollout, expanding the model to other regions facing similar plastic pollution challenges.
Learn more
For further details about the project, you can read the full press release here: Press Release