In Karachi, a collaboration between DMC South, Shell Pakistan, and startup BRR Enterprise has resulted in the construction of a road made with recycled plastic. The aim of the project is to address the issue of plastic waste and promote environmentally friendly practices in the city.
The road, located near Shell House in Karachi, was built using a dry process method that recycled over 2.5 tonnes of discarded Shell lubricant bottles. By incorporating these plastic bottles into the asphalt road, Shell Pakistan aims to reduce plastic waste and contribute to the development of sustainable infrastructure.
Plastic waste is a major environmental concern as it does not easily break down and can have harmful effects. Plastic bags can take up to 500 years to decompose, while plastic bottles can take around 300 years. By using discarded plastic bottles in road construction, Shell Pakistan is taking a step towards addressing this environmental challenge.
Plastic-infused roads offer several advantages over conventional roads, including increased flexibility, durability, and a lifespan nearly three times longer. Moreover, using plastic in road construction helps reduce costs as plastic materials are readily available and cost-effective compared to traditional construction materials. This innovative approach not only contributes to sustainable infrastructure but also tackles the social problem of plastic waste.
During the inauguration of the newly constructed road, Waqar Siddiqui, the Chief Executive and Managing Director of Shell Pakistan Limited, expressed his excitement for the project’s success. He emphasized the importance of using discarded lubricant bottles to create a road, highlighting its potential to reduce plastic waste and provide an environmentally friendly option for future infrastructure projects in Pakistan.
