Techies Abroad: Supporting Circular Innovation in Uganda
Over the past three months, I’ve had the opportunity to work with Techies Go Green as a Communications Assistant, helping to promote sustainability across the technology sector. In June, I’ll be stepping away from this role to volunteer in Uganda with EcoBrix, a remarkable non-profit focused on tackling plastic pollution through circular economy principles.
EcoBrix operates as a plastic upcycling centre in Masaka, Uganda, where it partners with local communities to transform plastic waste into sustainable building materials—all while creating meaningful employment and educational opportunities. Their mission is both environmental and social: to reduce plastic pollution while building a more inclusive, community-driven economy.
Image Source: Ecobrix
The EcoBrix model is deeply embedded in the community. Plastic waste is collected by individuals and sold to the centre, generating income for more than 3,000 people—75% of whom are young people. Over half of EcoBrix’s full-time staff are people with physical disabilities, underscoring the organisation’s commitment to inclusive employment. Their “Plastic for Education” initiative further empowers youth, enabling school clubs to exchange collected plastic for school fee support.
In April alone, EcoBrix upcycled 159 tonnes of plastic waste—plastic that would otherwise litter the environment or enter Lake Victoria via local tributaries. The collected plastic is weighed, sorted, shredded into PET flakes, and either sold to recycling firms or moulded into EcoBrix’s own product line. This includes plastic bricks, paving slabs, lumber, benches, fence posts, and even face shields during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a truly closed-loop system that highlights the power of community-led climate action.
Image Source: Ecobrix
EcoBrix’s motto, “We give trash a value,” reflects their vision for a circular, sustainable future—one that’s rapidly expanding across south-eastern Uganda.
During my time in Masaka, I will be volunteering as part of a team from UCD Volunteers Overseas (UCDVO). Together, we’ll support the expansion of the upcycling site to help scale operations. I’ll also be involved in the planning and design of a community playground made entirely from upcycled plastic. In addition, I’ll deliver digital skills training to EcoBrix employees and provide educational support to four local schools connected to the project.
I’m incredibly excited to immerse myself in the EcoBrix model, learn from their innovative approach, and contribute to their ongoing work. This experience represents a unique opportunity to see sustainable development in action—where environmental impact, economic empowerment, and community resilience go hand in hand.
Seán Comiskey
Sean Comiskey joined Techies Go Green from March to June 2025 as a Communications Assistant while completing his Bachelor’s degree in Sustainability with Social Sciences at UCD with a concentration in Policy & Law. We wish Seán all the best on his new endeavour in Uganda, making a difference volunteering with UCDVO.