Network Talk – Episode #8 on Social Entrepreneurship and Trash4Cash 

In conversation with podcast host Charlotte Goldstone, the guests tell the story of Trash4Cash: a startup founded by seven young people in Livingstone (Zambia) that has established a functioning value chain for recyclable waste. What began as a youth project, inspired by an exchange program between DACHSER and Terre des Hommes, is now a successful social enterprise that creates jobs, generates income for the local population, and actively contributes to environmental and climate protection.

A key factor in its success is the international youth exchange between young people from Zambia and DACHSER’s young professionals from Germany in 2018. This exchange program laid the foundation for entrepreneurial thinking, sustainable networks, and long-term prospects. With the support of local partners, the city of Livingstone, and international organizations, Trash4Cash was able to open its own recycling center in 2023 and now even operates its first truck with the support of the city administration and UNIDO.

In this episode, Christoph Meyer shares his personal experiences from a later exchange project on-site, his work at the recycling center, and the professional and personal insights he gained from his time in Zambia. At the same time, the conversation highlights the added value such international projects offer to young talent and to DACHSER as a company.

The episode highlights how social responsibility, corporate engagement, and international cooperation can work together—and the role young people play in driving sustainable change.