Angola 
Botswana 
Namibia 
Zambia 
Zimbabwe 
Southern Africa is renowned for its extraordinary beauty — from sprawling savannas and towering baobabs to the legendary Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. But even in this breathtaking region, plastic pollution has emerged as a pressing threat, endangering both wildlife and communities.
Ele-Collection: A Movement for Change
In response to this growing crisis, Ele-Collection has launched an ambitious initiative — not simply to manage plastic waste, but to eliminate it entirely. Their mission is grounded in the belief that environmental preservation and community empowerment go hand in hand.
Restoring Victoria Falls — And Beyond
Ele-Collection began with a clear and urgent goal: to clean up Victoria Falls City and its surrounding National Parks. These areas are not only ecologically vital but also rich in cultural heritage. Once this goal is achieved, the initiative will expand across the broader Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Region — one of the world’s largest transfrontier conservation areas.
Closing the Loop on Plastic Waste
At its core, Ele-Collection is about more than just cleanup. It’s about circularity — taking discarded plastic from streets, rivers, and parks and transforming it into sustainable, durable products. This closed-loop approach not only reduces pollution but also generates economic value for local communities.
The initiative collaborates with grassroots organizations, local businesses, and passionate individuals to scale its impact. It’s a collective effort to tackle one of the region’s most urgent environmental challenges.
Born from Tragedy, Driven by Purpose
The idea for Ele-Collection emerged from a deeply personal moment in 2021. Following a series of tragic events — including the death of a local anti-poaching ranger and several elephant-related incidents — questions began to surface. Why were elephants becoming increasingly aggressive near human settlements?
An autopsy revealed the disturbing answer: elephants were ingesting large quantities of plastic while foraging near towns. The toxic waste was causing illness, confusion, and distress among the animals.
This revelation became a turning point. What began as a conversation soon transformed into action. With community support and a clear sense of urgency, Ele-Collection was born — driven by a powerful mission to prevent further harm and restore balance.
How Ele-Collection is Making a Difference
- Community-Wide Plastic Collection
Ele-Collection makes it easy for everyone — residents, businesses, and tourists — to responsibly dispose of plastic. Accessible collection points ensure waste is removed safely and efficiently. - Corporate & Residential Solutions
Tailored waste management services help households and businesses contribute directly to the cause, reducing their environmental footprint. - Turning Plastic into Opportunity
By offering payment per kilogram of plastic collected, Ele-Collection incentivizes clean-up efforts and creates income-generating opportunities for locals. - Dedicated Collection Teams
Targeting the most affected areas, Ele-Collection employs teams of community members — many from vulnerable backgrounds — to lead clean-up operations while earning a reliable income.
A Network of Changemakers
The success of Ele-Collection is deeply rooted in collaboration. Several key partners play a vital role in advancing the mission:
- Pristine Victoria Falls Society (PVFS): A grassroots clean-up movement, PVFS has provided unwavering support from the start.
- Zion City Foundation: A women-led initiative offering training and employment for vulnerable teenage girls. Many Ele-Collection team members hail from this foundation.
- Ele-Crew: Conservation experts working on the ground to reduce human-wildlife conflict and protect local elephant populations, including maintenance of the city’s perimeter electric fence.
- Children in the Wilderness: Focused on environmental education, this program equips the next generation with knowledge and awareness, ensuring a lasting impact.
Get Involved
This movement isn’t just about an organization — it’s about people. Whether you’re a local resident, a global traveller, a business owner, or an advocate for the environment, there’s a place for you in this story.
Ele-Collection believes that small actions lead to big changes. Together, communities can protect wildlife, preserve the environment, and inspire the world.
Join the movement. Turn the tide.
Watch the short film on Ele-Collection and Bushbottles CSR products
Learn more: www.elecollection.co
