GLOBAL RECOGNITION FOR ZIMBABWE’S “NATURE POSITIVE” INNOVATION

In a triumphant moment for Zimbabwean sustainability and conservation, Ele-Collection has been awarded the prestigious Gold prize for the World Travel Market (WTM) Nature Positive award. This significant accolade recognizes the organization’s pioneering work in environmental restoration and sustainable waste management, positioning it as a leading voice in the global movement toward regenerative tourism. The award was accepted on behalf of the organization by their strategic partners, Shongwe Selection, during the high-profile ceremony.

The WTM Nature Positive award is specifically designed to honour initiatives that do not merely minimize environmental harm but actively contribute to the health and biodiversity of the planet. For Ele-Collection, this recognition validates years of intensive research and development in their quest to solve one of Africa’s most pressing ecological challenges: plastic pollution in wilderness areas.

Through their innovative “Plazrok” technology, Ele-Collection has successfully demonstrated how non-recyclable plastic waste can be diverted from landfills and national parks to be transformed into a durable, eco-friendly aggregate for the construction industry.

Winning the regional Gold award serves as a gateway to the next stage of the journey, as Ele-Collection now moves forward to represent the region in the global competition. This progression highlights the international scalability of Zimbabwean-born solutions.

By proving that a circular economy can thrive even in sensitive conservation zones like Victoria Falls, Ele-Collection is providing a blueprint for other emerging markets grappling with similar environmental crises. Their model essentially turns a liability—discarded plastic—into a valuable asset that builds infrastructure without further depleting natural quarry resources.

The success of Ele-Collection is deeply intertwined with its collaborative philosophy. The partnership with Shongwe Selection, a name synonymous with luxury and ethical tourism, underscores the growing demand for “green” supply chains within the hospitality sector. Travelers today are increasingly seeking destinations that align with their values, and awards of this calibre provide the transparency and credibility required to attract the global eco-tourist.

As the team prepares for the global stage, the sentiment within the Zimbabwean conservation community is one of immense pride. This award is not just a trophy for a single company; it is a signal to the world that Zimbabwe is at the forefront of “nature positive” innovation. With the global competition on the horizon, Ele-Collection remains focused on its mission to scrub the landscape clean of plastic, proving that through ingenuity and partnership, the future of African tourism can be both profitable and profoundly protective of the natural world.