Recycled plastic bottles could pave more roads in Africa under new agreement

Shimizu Corporation, Kao Corporation and The Nippon Road Co signed a letter of intent (LoI) in Yokohama during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) earlier this month. It establishes a framework for cooperation on testing and deploying climate-resilient road maintenance solutions, with a particular focus on the use of “PET Asphalt Concrete” - an asphalt mixture reinforced with waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The Japanese consortium’s technology was chosen in June through a competitive call under the AfDB’s Sustainable Road Maintenance Program for Africa. By incorporating PET bottles, the solution aims to extend the lifespan of roads, reduce maintenance backlogs, and advance circular economy practices across the continent.

Under the agreement, the AfDB will coordinate with governments, promote awareness, build local capacity, and explore financing for the roll-out of the technology. The companies will carry out demand and feasibility studies, pilot PET Asphalt Concrete in different African environments, and assess investment prospects for scaling up.

Shimizu has already begun trial applications in Kenya, with further tests expected to follow in other countries.

“The key to successfully spreading this technology in Africa is collaboration with local companies and partners,” said Kazuya Osako, managing officer and director of Shimizu’s international civil engineering division.

AfDB vice president Solomon Quaynor added. “Partnering with Shimizu, Kao, and Nippon Road will enable Africa to benefit from cutting-edge circular economy technology while addressing the growing backlog of road maintenance needs.”