Giving unused bicycles a new life

Re-Cycle (Bikes to Africa) is a pioneering sustainability charity that has been championing the circular economy for almost 30 years. Since 1997, we have diverted more than 165,000 unwanted bicycles from waste streams and given them a second life in rural African communities.

By collecting donated bicycles across the UK, preparing them for reuse, and distributing them through trusted African partner organisations, Re-Cycle creates a practical and scalable model of environmental sustainability. Reusing bicycles conserves raw materials, reduces waste, and avoids the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing new products.

Our impact extends far beyond environmental benefits. Access to affordable transport enables children to travel to school, healthcare workers to reach patients, farmers to access markets, and entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. Bicycles provide a low-carbon, affordable transport solution that strengthens livelihoods and community resilience.

Sustainability is embedded throughout our work. Our volunteers help collect, repair, and prepare bicycles, developing practical skills while promoting reuse and environmental responsibility within their communities. Our African partners also train local mechanics, creating employment opportunities and supporting long-term bicycle maintenance and repair.

By connecting circular economy principles with sustainable development, Re-Cycle demonstrates how a simple, donated bicycle can create lasting environmental, social, and economic change. Our model transforms waste into opportunity, delivering measurable benefits for people and the planet while inspiring sustainable action across two continents.