Thierry Malabar, Project Manager at BEM Recycling, is getting ready for a busy year in 2023. The WEEE recycling firm plans to assert itself more with the general population and particularly with the young Mauritians, in order to meet its new goals and maintain its zero waste philosophy. As a result, BEM Recycling has been a well-established player in the Mauritius environmental scene for over 20 years.
Hello, Thierry! How was 2022 for BEM Recycling?
The year 2022 was beneficial in many ways, and we can see a genuine shift toward a more sustainable economy as a result of the steps done, notably in terms of recycling at all levels.
In terms of the firm, the efforts and commitment of the entire team paid off: BEM Recycling was recognized at the Sustainable Tourism Mauritius Awards 2022 ceremony. The company has also been labeled ‘ ‘Made in Moris’.
On the environmental side, the campaigns and awareness efforts yielded with a total of 110 tons of WEEE collected. This is due in part to our closeness, as well as the rising desire of Mauritanians in joining the good cause of environmental conservation for a sustainable green island. Indeed, we more than 10,000 followers on our Facebook page, to which we welcome you to subscribe if you have not already done so.
110 tons of WEEE collected ? Up or down? How’s it going ?
We are pleased to observe an increase in recovered tonnage at the household level compared to 2021.
As you already know, the households, can deposit their end-of-life equipment against payment in one of the following partner stores: The Good Shop or The Charity Centre. As such, more than 4 tons of WEEE have been collected, which is a very encouraging result.
We can also talk about the waste glass collection, particularly with the partnership of Mission Verte and Precious Plastic, where more than 5 tons of glass have been recycled.
So, in your perspective, can we claim that Mauritians nowadays are more environmentally conscious?
Mauritians are becoming increasingly mindful of their influence on the preservation of the earth. Collection efforts are being coordinated more efficiently and are currently taking place over the island. New organizations enter the circuit to help, with the objective of strengthening efforts and disseminating knowledge on environmental challenges on a bigger scale. This is especially true in the sphere of waste emissions reduction, sorting, recovery, and recycling, for a long-term meaningful effect. As such, eco-gestures must become ingrained in everyone’s everyday lives.
The year 2023: how does it look for BEM Recycling?
BEM Recycling maintains its ethical and sustainable approach by adopting targeted initiatives with the help of the entire team’s know-how and skills. We will strengthen our motivation to raise awareness and speak about the good practices more effectively. We will spotlight our subscribers and partners in particular by asking them to participate in our “open forum,” where they may express themselves and share their ideas. We aim to promote a green and local economy, as well as the promotion of sustainable pedagogy among the youth.
You joined the BEM Recycling team in 2013; have you learned anything along the way?
Indeed, it has been nearly ten years since I joined the family firm; how quickly time passes! A project manager’s journey is rarely a smooth one, and you should anticipate some obstacles. Our strength comes from the fact that we operate as a family and can always rely on each other. We would like to thank you all for the kindness we get on a daily basis, without forgetting the many amazing interactions we have had through the years.