When Clare Swithenbank-Bowman moved from Ballito to Carlsbad, California, seven years ago, she took with her a passion for sustainability and community upliftment.
As the founder of Litter4Tokens and its U.S. counterpart, Trash4Tokens, Clare’s work has transformed waste into opportunity. Recently, her efforts took on new urgency as she witnessed the devastation of California’s wildfires, inspiring her to strengthen her mission in the States.
A WAKE-UP CALL
Although her home in Carlsbad has been spared, Clare remains acutely aware of the destruction wreaked by wildfires across Los Angeles and other parts of California. “The fires here are relentless,” she says. “It feels like they’re becoming more widespread every year, fuelled by poor vegetation management and flammable plants like eucalyptus.”
Clare’s observations echo broader concerns about the region’s fire preparedness. With delayed rains and the fierce Santa Ana winds, wildfires in California are becoming increasingly frequent and intense. “It’s heart-breaking to see communities uprooted,” Clare says. “While we can’t stop the fires, we can contribute to rebuilding.”
Through Trash4Tokens, Clare has partnered with local organisations to provide essential items to fire-affected communities. “Even small actions can make a difference,” she says. “It’s about showing up when people need help the most.”
BRIDGING TWO CONTINENTS
Clare’s roots remain firmly in South Africa, where Litter4Tokens has revolutionised waste collection. The initiative offers tokens to community members in exchange for bags of litter, which can then be redeemed for food and essential supplies. Since its inception in 2015, the programme has collected over 2.6 million bags of waste and diverted nearly 3 000 tonnes
of litter.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Clare remains optimistic. “Every challenge is an opportunity to innovate,” she says. Her efforts with Trash4Tokens in California and Litter4Tokens in South Africa are proof that small, community-driven solutions can address global problems. “From waste to wildfires, we’re committed to turning adversity into action.”
Details: IG: @litter4tokens
