By: Audrey Raymonda John
In a bold effort to combat environmental pollution while promoting affordable construction, Premier Enviro Solution Ltd, one of Sierra Leone’s leading plastic recycling companies, has announced that it is transforming plastic waste into concrete blocks and pavement tiles for building purposes.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press conference, the company’s Managing Director, Walid Bahsoon, explained that the firm is focused on delivering practical environmental solutions by converting plastic waste into useful construction products.
“We collect all types of plastic waste and transform them into products such as building blocks, pavement tiles, and other construction materials,” Bahsoon said. “These products are not only environmentally friendly but also more affordable than traditional cement alternatives.”
According to him, the company’s plastic-based construction materials are stronger, more durable, and resistant to water damage, making them suitable for long-term infrastructure projects, including housing and hostel development.
Bahsoon noted that the company’s operations extend beyond recycling, as they also create economic opportunities for local communities.
“To source our raw materials, we work directly with communities, beach collectors, and individuals. We buy plastic waste from them, putting money directly into their hands,” he explained. “A plastic bottle is no longer just waste it becomes a source of income.”
He added that the initiative is empowering low-income households by creating a market for plastic waste, enabling people to collect, sell, and earn from materials that were previously discarded.
“In simple terms, waste becomes wealth,” he stated.
Despite its progress, Bahsoon acknowledged that the company faces significant operational challenges, particularly in the collection and transportation of plastic waste.
“We process around 15,000 kilograms of plastic per day, but plastic is bulky. A jumbo bag may only hold about 70 kilograms despite taking up a lot of space,” he disclosed. “Transportation alone can be extremely expensive sometimes costing nearly as much as the material itself.”
He emphasized that while the business may not generate substantial profits, its social and environmental impact is significant.
“This is not a high-profit business it is a high-impact business,” Bahsoon remarked. “Our mission is simple: reduce plastic pollution, create jobs, and produce affordable building materials.”
On the technical side, Bahsoon clarified that the company currently produces composite materials, where plastic is combined with sand and other elements to achieve the right balance of strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
He explained that a 100 x 200 mm rectangular pavement tile uses approximately 0.6 kg of plastic, while a 6-inch hollow block requires about 3 kg of plastic, and a larger 6-inch variant uses up to 4.4 kg of plastic.
However, Bahsoon acknowledged that the company is still working to strengthen its testing and certification processes.
“At this stage, we have not yet completed all advanced tests required, including fire resistance, thermal performance, and UV durability testing,” he said. “Our next step is to invest in comprehensive laboratory testing and certification to meet both local and international standards.”
He concluded by emphasizing that environmental discussions should focus not only on identifying problems but also on delivering practical solutions.
“Too often, when we talk about environmental issues, we focus only on the problem. We are focused on the solution,” Bahsoon said. “Give plastic waste value, and people will change their behavior.”