Upcycling water sachets in West Africa

In Mali, single-use water sachets are widely used. With limited waste management, the plastic often ends up clogging streets and drains. Entrepreneur Fatoumata Diallo is turning the problem into an opportunity. She collects used water sachets, cleans and repurposes them into durable handbags and school bags, creating income for herself and her team.

Across West Africa, plastic pollution harms ecosystems and human health. By training hundreds of women in upcycling and recycling, Diallo is helping communities rethinkwaste — showing that even discarded plastic can have value.