Evaluating The Environmental and Economic Impact of Used Cooking Oil Collection Through Local Partners in Egypt

Egypt is one of the world’s largest contributors to food waste, generating 100 million tonnes annually, much of which could be recycled. Yet the used cooking oil (UCO) market remains largely unorganized: of 500,000 metric tons generated each year, only 3.6% is collected. Households produce 70% of this waste but face limited disposal options and low awareness of sustainable practices. 

Delta Oil, an Egyptian start-up, addresses this challenge by collecting used cooking oil through pickup services and fixed drop-off points, converting it into clean biodiesel. It partners with 300 local collectors, who gather oil from households and receive incentives based on collection volumes. Participating households earn non-monetary rewards in return. This study will assess the impact of Delta Oil’s model on waste collection, household awareness of sustainable UCO disposal, and social and economic outcomes, including income opportunities.

With Delta Oil’s planned expansion to Upper Egypt—where collection efforts are minimal—the study will use a randomized evaluation to compare areas with and without the program. Findings will inform scalable, evidence-based policies to strengthen UCO collection, expand biofuel production, and create economic opportunities, particularly for women.

To prepare, this project is seeking funding for field visits to identify barriers faced by households and collectors, examine operational and logistical challenges, and engage Delta Oil’s current and past partners to understand their experience with the collection process. These insights will help refine the research design and lay the groundwork for a high-impact study on sustainable waste management in Egypt.