In a groundbreaking move, Shell Pakistan has unveiled an innovative and environmentally friendly road in Karachi. The company recently announced that it has successfully constructed a road by recycling discarded Shell lubricant bottles, thereby addressing the issue of plastic waste. The initiative was carried out in collaboration with BRR Enterprises, a startup, and the local authority, District Municipal Corporation (DMC) South.
A staggering 2.5 tonnes of discarded Shell lubricant bottles were recycled for the construction of this remarkable road, measuring 730 feet in length and 60 feet in width. By utilizing the dry process method, the plastic bottles were effectively incorporated into the asphalt, significantly reducing plastic waste.
Plastic waste poses a severe threat to the environment due to its non-biodegradable and toxic nature. Shockingly, research indicates that a mere plastic bag can take up to 500 years to decompose, while a plastic bottle can linger for approximately 300 years. However, this innovative plastic-infused road offers a sustainable solution to the plastic waste problem.
Not only does the road exhibit higher flexibility and durability compared to conventional roads, but it also boasts a lifespan nearly three times longer. Additionally, the use of plastic as a construction material is cost-effective, as it significantly reduces construction expenses. Traditional road construction materials tend to be more expensive, whereas plastics are readily available and practically free.
The successful implementation of this road not only demonstrates its sustainability but also addresses the pressing social issue of plastic waste. During the inauguration of the road, Waqar Siddiqui, the Chief Executive and Managing Director of Shell Pakistan Limited, expressed his amazement at the results. He emphasized the significance of this innovation in reducing plastic waste and highlighted its potential as an environmentally friendly option for future infrastructure projects in Pakistan.