Rewarding Sustainable Living in R’dam. Rewarding sustainable actions through community
Byewaste Connect: Rewarding Sustainable Living in Rotterdam Since receiving initial support from CityLab010 in 2020, Byewaste has established a door-to-door collection system for valuable materials across Rotterdam and 10 other major Dutch cities, engaging over 20,000 active users. Our platform enables residents to conveniently donate items from their homes, which are then sorted, reused, or recycled through an expanding network of circular partners. This initiative has significantly contributed to CO₂ reductions and aligns with Rotterdam’s sustainability goals. Byewaste Connect aims to further transform Rotterdam into a greener, more socially inclusive city by introducing an innovative, credit-based reward system and a community engagement platform. Users will earn "Green Points" for each donation, which they can redeem with local sustainable businesses, like the The Swapshop, or for repair services and workshops that foster a circular lifestyle. This reward system provides a tangible incentive for sustainable actions, motivating residents to contribute actively and consistently to environmental goals. The community engagement platform will feature a dedicated section for users to track their environmental impact, such as CO₂ savings and items diverted from landfills. Additionally, it will offer recycling tips, articles on sustainability practices, and information on local events such as repair workshops or toy swaps. This interactive space empowers users with knowledge and encourages active participation in Rotterdam’s sustainability initiatives. Our primary target group includes environmentally conscious Rotterdam residents looking for convenient ways to declutter sustainably, engage with local sustainability initiatives, and contribute positively to the environment. We also partner with local businesses and social enterprises to create a collaborative ecosystem supporting the circular economy. Credit-Based Reward System: Provides meaningful incentives that set us apart from traditional recycling programs, encouraging consistent sustainable behavior. Community Engagement Features: Fosters a sense of community and continuous participation through educational content and event promotion. Expanded Partnership Network: Strengthens the circular economy by connecting users with a range of local sustainable businesses and social enterprises. Impact on Rotterdam: Byewaste Connect will increase recycling rates, reduce landfill waste, and lower CO₂ emissions. The reward system encourages sustainable habits, while community events promote social interaction and collective environmental responsibility. Supporting local businesses reinforces the circular model and integrates sustainability into Rotterdam’s social fabric. Byewaste is a social enterprise dedicated to making sustainable living accessible and rewarding for all Rotterdam residents. Our team is driven by a shared mission to create a cleaner, greener, and more inclusive city, with expertise in sustainability, technology, and community engagement. With CityLab010’s support, we plan to enhance our platform with the missing features, expand our network of sustainable partners. The €50,000 grant will allow us to develop the reward system, strengthen technological infrastructure, and drive community engagement. Additionally, CityLab010’s expertise and networking resources will be instrumental in refining our strategies and scaling Byewaste Connect.