My name is Paul Theuri. I am a small-scale entrepreneur engaged in the waste recycling business, driven by a strong commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable income generation. I grew up understanding the challenges of limited opportunities, which motivated me to start a business that not only supports my livelihood but also benefits the community.

I currently operate in Nyeri Town, Mathira, and Kirinyaga Central Constituencies, where I aggregate and supply recyclable materials. I am fully compliant with local regulations, holding a valid business license and NEMA approval, allowing me to operate legally and responsibly in waste management.

Through my work, I collaborate closely with street waste collectors and informal waste pickers, providing them with a reliable market for recyclable materials. This business has helped me build resilience, independence, and a long-term vision of growing a sustainable recycling enterprise that creates both environmental and social impact.

My business focuses on the collection, aggregation, and resale of recyclable waste materials to recycling companies. Currently, I deal mainly in waste paper, especially cartons and white paper, which I collect from shops, offices, institutions, households, and street waste collectors.

The business operates in Nyeri Town, Mathira, and Kirinyaga Central Constituencies. I chose this business because of the growing waste management challenges in these areas and the increasing demand for recyclable materials by recycling companies.

My typical costs include purchasing recyclable materials from collectors, transport, storage, and sorting expenses. Revenue is generated through the sale of sorted recyclables to recycling firms. Profits from the business are mainly reinvested to grow operations, improve collection capacity, and support daily household needs.

With additional funding, I plan to expand into nylon papers, recyclable plastics, PET bottles, and glass bottles, increasing revenue while supporting more informal collectors and reducing environmental pollution.

The funds will be used to expand my waste recycling business to include plastics, PET bottles, and nylons. Specifically, I will use the funds to:

Purchase equipment and tools for sorting, cleaning, and storing plastics, PET bottles, and nylons efficiently.

Set up storage space to safely hold collected plastics and nylons before sale.

Cover collection and transport costs, enabling us to reach more households and businesses.

Train staff in proper handling and sorting of plastics to maintain high-quality recyclable material.

Benefits:

To myself: This expansion will increase my income by tapping into a growing market for recyclable plastics. It will allow me to scale my business sustainably and improve my financial stability.

To my family: A larger, more profitable business means I can provide better for my family, including improved access to education, healthcare, and daily living needs.

To my community: Collecting and recycling plastics, PET bottles, and nylons reduces environmental pollution and promotes cleaner neighborhoods. It also creates employment opportunities for local youth and encourages responsible waste management practices.

With this funding, I will be able to turn more waste into value, improve my livelihood, and make a positive impact on the environment and community.