Academic City University College has unveiled an innovative plastic recycling machine, dubbed Sustain City 2.0, as part of its Sustain City Project, contributing to national efforts to address the plastic pollution crisis.

The machine was developed by students of Academic City in collaboration with students from the University of Dayton and Millersville University, both in the USA.

The commissioning of Sustain City 2.0 highlights Academic City’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and practical education, aligning with national and global efforts to create a cleaner and more sustainable future

Launched in 2021, the Sustain City Initiative forms part of Academic City’s strategic contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

The Sustain City 2.0 Project focuses on recycling plastic waste to prevent environmental pollution. It converts plastic waste into durable raw materials for crafting products like robotic kits, which support STEAM education in rural Ghana.

Building on the original initiative, this phase has advanced to developing machines that transform plastic waste into 3D printing filament and other valuable materials.

So far, the project has successfully built a plastic shredder, filament maker, and injection mould machine.

This phase aims to produce plastic-derived raw materials for creating robotic kits and sustainability-focused learning tools while equipping young people with the skills to use these machines to develop practical solutions.

The initiative also aims to replicate these interventions in schools by establishing small sustainability labs to foster environmental awareness.

Speaking at the commissioning event, Mr. Avriel Avraham, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Israel, lauded the students of Academic City and its partner universities for this groundbreaking innovation.

He highlighted its potential to reduce plastic pollution in Ghana significantly.

He also emphasized the cordial relationship between the Israeli government and Academic City, dating back to 2021, which led to the establishment of the Makelab. The Makelab has since supported numerous student startups and other innovative projects.

“Our shared vision has always been to promote innovation, empower young people to harness creativity, and provide hands-on experimentation through the Makelab. The Israeli Embassy looks forward to deepening its collaboration with Academic City,” he noted.

Ing. Dr. Lucy Agyepong, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Academic City, celebrated the evolution of the Sustain City Project, which began with community plastic collection, progressed to building receptacles, and has now culminated in the creation of this pioneering recycling machine.

“This initiative showcases Academic City’s unwavering commitment to equipping students with practical skills to address the country’s plastic pollution challenges,” she remarked.

Makafui Awuku, Manager of the Technology and Entrepreneurship Centre at Academic City, emphasised the importance of enhancing recycling capabilities to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable community practices.