UNITED IN ACTION, ALIGNED IN VISION
OUR PARTNERSHIP
Bush Bottles was drawn to Ele-Collection’s groundbreaking solution to the plastic crisis – they repurpose all 7 types of plastic waste into sustainable building materials.
This innovative approach is unique and ensures that no plastic is left behind, positioning Ele-Collection as a leader in the fight against pollution.
Starting in Zimbabwe, Ele-Collection is expanding its efforts across the KAZA region and beyond. They work to remove plastic from ecosystems, such as Victoria Falls, while creating a new economy that generates jobs among local communities.
This solution, however, can only be achieved through private investment, and Bush Bottles is delighted to contribute to this mission. Each product we sell helps fund Ele-Collection’s vital work. Together, we aim to scale this unique solution: creating cleaner environments, and protecting Africa’s wildlife and people for years to come.
THE PROCESS
ELE COLLECTION
THE STORY
In 2021, Ele-Collection started exploring solutions to address the growing plastic crisis in Africa. The challenge was immense, and no straightforward answers were available.
On October 8, 2021, tragedy struck when beloved anti-poaching ranger Clever Kapandura was trampled by an elephant, sending shockwaves through the community. Two weeks later, Simon Teede (Operations Director) and Larry Norton survived an attack by an enraged bull elephant.
Shortly after, another resident was killed by an aggressive elephant. An autopsy revealed the cause: the bull’s stomach was filled with plastic. Elephants, drawn into town by food waste, were ingesting toxic plastic, leading to erratic and dangerous behavior.
In response, Ele-Collection discovered a groundbreaking method for transforming all 7 types of plastic waste into building materials that are stronger and lighter than traditional options. This sustainable approach reduces pollution while providing valuable resources for infrastructure development, benefiting both people and the planet.
THE TEAM
Simon Teede
CEO
Rainer von Urff-Kaufeld
Technical Director
Heinrich von Pezold
Chairman Of The Board
