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In developing economies, up to 70% of consumer transactions happen in the informal market. This creates a massive data gap for global brands and policymakers, while simultaneously fueling a looming environmental crisis as these communities lack vital waste management infrastructure. At Taka Earth, we realised that Africa’s biggest data black hole and its most pressing waste challenge are actually the same problem, and we are using AI and smart technology to solve both. We have developed proprietary AI smartbin technology that transforms post-consumer waste management into a high-value data commodity. Through our Drop, Scan, & Earn system, we incentivise communities in Kenya and Rwanda to return recyclable packaging. By rewarding these returns, we are not just managing waste; we are actively building decentralised waste infrastructure in the neighbourhoods that need it most, while capturing granular, real-time consumption data that finally makes the informal economy visible to FMCGs. We are turning trash into purchasing power, currently deploying $2,000 in monthly micro-incentives that directly increase the earning potential of vulnerable communities. With over 500,000 post-consumer packaging items already collected, we are proving that you can mitigate environmental pollution, support corporate ESG goals, and drive sustainable economic empowerment all at once. We are building the data infrastructure for a smarter, greener circular economy in Africa.