About this project
Green Health Africa, a youth-led civil society organization dedicated to fostering climate action and health, proposes the "Plastic-Free Schools for a Healthier Ethiopia" project. This initiative directly responds to the 1 Million Youth Actions Challenge (1MYAC) by empowering youth aged 18-35 to lead the charge against plastic pollution in educational institutions.
Plastic and microplastic pollution pose grave threats not only to the environment but also to human health, the economy, and climate stability. Scientific studies have linked microplastic ingestion to endocrine disruption, respiratory illness, and potential carcinogenic effects in humans. Economically, plastic waste burdens developing nations with high waste management costs, reduced agricultural yields due to soil contamination, and loss of revenue in sectors like tourism. Moreover, the production and incineration of plastics contribute approximately 850 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, exacerbating the climate crisis.
Our project aims to raise awareness, implement plastic-free practices, and establish sustainable waste management systems within schools, culminating in the development and dissemination of a comprehensive "Plastic-Free School Guide." By tackling plastic pollution at its source within school communities, we will contribute significantly to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land), with a strong focus on the fight against plastic pollution. We seek up to 8,000 CAD in funding and technical support to bring this vital project to fruition.
Technically, the project is feasible, utilizing a proven youth-led model, stakeholder collaboration, and a clear implementation roadmap. The initiative will result in a measurable reduction in plastic waste, foster behavioral change, and empower youth leaders to champion sustainability in their communities. The project life-time is estimated to be a minimum of five (5) months.
Goals and Objectives
Raise Awareness
Educate a minimum of 500 students and 50 teachers in 3–5 pilot schools on the environmental, health, and economic impacts of plastic pollution and the importance of sustainable alternatives.
Promote Plastic-Free Practices
Facilitate the reduction of at least 75% of single-use plastic waste in participating schools by implementing waste segregation systems, promoting reusable alternatives, and discouraging unnecessary plastic use.
Develop Educational Resources
Design and publish a replicable “Plastic-Free School Guide” (digital and print) that includes step-by-step practices, case studies, and templates for school-based plastic reduction policies.
Empower Youth Leadership
Train 30 youth leaders (aged 18–35) as "Plastic-Free Ambassadors" to lead awareness campaigns, coordinate activities, and ensure sustainability of the initiatives within their schools and communities.
Strengthen Institutional Capacity
Establish long-term partnerships with school administrations, local authorities, and environmental organizations to embed plastic-free principles into school operations and curricula.
Expected result
Expected Outcomes/Impact
Increased Awareness: Students and teachers will have a deeper understanding of plastic pollution's impacts and practical ways to reduce their plastic footprint.
Reduced Plastic Waste: Measurable reduction in single-use plastic waste generated within pilot schools.
Behavioral Change: Shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns among school communities.
Empowered Youth: A cadre of trained youth leaders capable of advocating for and implementing environmental solutions.
Replicable Model: The "Plastic-Free School Guide" will serve as a valuable resource for other schools to replicate the initiative, fostering a wider movement.
Contribution to SDGs: Direct positive impact on SDG 6 (cleaner school environments, reduced water contamination), SDG 12 (responsible consumption), SDG 13 (reduced emissions from plastic production/disposal), and SDG 15 (healthier terrestrial ecosystems). The project also directly addresses the 1MYAC's focus on Plastic Pollution and Disaster Risk Reduction by preventing plastic-induced drainage blockages and associated flooding.
About me / organisation
Green Health Africa
Green Health- is a pioneering youth led emerging organization, founded in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia that aims to integrate sustainability and eco-friendly practices into the healthcare sector and the youth of Africa. Recognizing the significant influence health professionals have within their communities, Green Health seeks to educate and empower these professionals to advocate for and implement sustainable practices. Our mission is to combat climate change and promote a generation of responsible global citizens by integrating environmental awareness into healthcare practices.
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