Summary

The increasing production and accumulation of single-use plastic waste poses a grave threat to the environment of the Philippines. This calls for circular economy solutions across sectors to reduce waste production, and help reverse the impact of the unchecked plastic waste proliferation. At the same time, there is a need for building materials that are durable, strong and less carbon intensive to produce than conventional materials.

Background and Objective

Founded in 2012, Green Antz Builders is an innovative provider of building material solutions that integrate eco-friendly practices and green technology. The company targets the B2B market segment and has sold more than 50,000 ECO-BRICKS and 200,000 ECO-PAVERS to date. They have also established 20 ‘Eco-Hubs’ which are social franchises providing integrated waste collection and materials production. Green Antz has the goal of being present in every municipality to diversify waste management streams and provide affordable and environmentally sustainable construction materials in those markets.

Innovative Initiative

Green Antz offers a scalable, environmentally sustainable construction material solution for the Philippines. Green Antz responds to this challenge by viewing plastic waste as an asset to provide quality construction materials that divert plastic waste from the environment. Working with corporations and investors, GreenAntz establishes ‘eco-hubs’ for awareness raising, waste collection, manufacturing and marketing of eco-friendly construction materials. Green Antz goes beyond environmental sustainability with quality, affordable materials and a socially impactful business model. The products of Green Antz meet or surpass conventional cement blocks in aesthetics and quality, at a lower price per square meter, offering low-income households an attractive and affordable building alternative. Furthermore, the production of bricks can provide income generation opportunities in communities where Green Ants products are being produced and sold.