The USAID Plastic Recycling Project was initiated in 2005. One of the Projects major goals is to create an effective, economically valuable and sustainable system for the collection, separation and recycling of plastic PET waste. A few years ago, illegal dump sites and scattered plastic bottles were regular scenery throughout Macedonia—in the capital, along main roads, and even at tourist locations. This desperate situation could only by changed through the commitment and engagement of local governments, public utility companies, NGOs and citizens. Through the Projects grant program, 24 municipalities purchased containers for the collection of PET plastic waste. Municipalities invested as well by providing locations for the containers named Ecological islands and by widely promoting the program. 8 companies were also awarded grants for start up, new equipment, and protective clothing needed for the collection, separation and recycling of plastic PET waste, thus creating thousands of new jobs. Public awareness campaigns under the motto Collect PET for a better world were a key element in promoting the concept of recycling. To reach the youngest generation, USAID provided funding for recycling clubs in 14 schools. Students participated in community clean-up activities, distributed collection bags for plastic waste to their neighbors, and found creative ways to promote the benefits of recycling. In 2008 and 2009, the USAID Plastic Recycling Project organized an International …
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