On January 18, 2024, the USAID Diverting Waste by Encouraging Reuse and Recycling (DAWERR) project launched “ReList,” the first mobile application in Lebanon for recyclables trading. DAWERR is a five-year activity implemented by ECODIT that is developing sustainable processes for composting organic waste, reducing the amount of solid waste that goes to landfills, and improving existing recycling efforts throughout rural areas in Lebanon. USAID/Lebanon Mission Director Julie Southfield, Lebanon Minister of Environment Dr. Nasser Yassin, and Director General of the Ministry of Industry Chantal Akl Sfeir attended the launch event, along with DAWERR’s local partners Berytech, Compost Baladi, and ECODIT Liban, the heads of partner municipalities, representatives from sorting facilities, factories, traders and exporters of waste, international organizations, and the private sector.

“ReList” is a solution that provides businesses across Lebanon with easy access to buyers and sellers of recyclables; increases access to markets, raw materials, and fair prices; reduces transportation distances, costs, and eventually increases the price of recyclables. By connecting sellers of recyclable materials with potential buyers, “ReList” not only creates economic opportunities but also significantly contributes to a cleaner environment.

In her remarks, Ms. Southfield said, “The commitment of the United States Government, through USAID, to reduce the destructiveness of poor solid waste management has been done in partnership with local communities and the private sector and we think it is a beacon of hope for a sustainable future in Lebanon… By supporting ‘ReList,’ USAID is not just embracing innovation; we are contributing to the larger goal of environmental sustainability, economic growth, and job creation.”

“ReList” was developed by Nadeera, a Lebanese startup company specializing in solid waste management. Nadeera won USAID DAWERR’s Clearinghouse Challenge, which worked with innovative startups and small- and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) to develop an online marketplace for source-separated recyclables. The company received a $40,000 grant from USAID, along with tailored technical assistance during the six-month incubation period to develop the “ReList” mobile application. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, the application has already made a significant impact since its soft launch.  

Rabih El Chaar Founder and CEO of Nadeera said, “Looking forward, Nadeera envisions a future where the ReList application becomes an integral part of waste management strategies in Lebanon, promoting responsible waste practices and driving meaningful change.”

By 2025, DAWERR anticipates diverting 56% of waste in the target municipalities and improving the quality of life for 300,000 people served by sustainable solid waste management systems in roughly 24 municipalities. The project will also establish 40 public-private partnerships to support improved solid waste management, create 100 sustainable full-time equivalent jobs in recycling value chains, and generate additional financial returns from composting and recycling.

“DAWERR is testament to the power of working with local organizations, the private sector, and communities. Together, we are achieving real change and fostering innovations that will improve recycling and solid waste management in Lebanon for years to come,” said ECODIT President Roula Attar.

ECODIT is a U.S.-based women-owned small business with 30 years of experience working with governments, businesses, and local communities to advance environmentally and socially responsible development around the world. To learn more about ECODIT, visit www.ecodit.com and follow the firm’s social media accounts on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.