Indicators and Targets

An indicator is a way to measure progress, using numbers (quantitative) or descriptions (qualitative). It helps check if a project is achieving its goals.

Targets should follow the SMART principles:

• Specific – Clearly defined
• Measurable – Can be tracked with data
• Achievable – Possible to reach
• Realistic – Practical within available resources
• Time-bound – Has a clear deadline

Indicators and Targets in a Logical Framework

A Logical Framework (Logframe) is a tool that summarises a project’s expected results. It clearly sets out:

• Project results (what the project aims to achieve)
• Indicators (how progress will be measured)
• Baseline values (starting point) and target values (what should be achieved)
• Milestones (key stages for delivering results)

Different organisations may use different formats for Logframes, but the main purpose remains the same—to provide a structured way to track progress and manage a project effectively.

Useful links for more information on Logical Frameworks:

• https://tools4dev.org/resources/how-to-write-a-logical-framework-logframe/
• https://www.betterevaluation.org/methods-approaches/methods/logframe
• https://www.evalacademy.com/articles/differences-between-theory-of-change-log-frames-results-frameworks-and-logic-models-what-are-they-and-when-to-use-them

Useful Indicators for a Plastic Collection and Recycling Project

Tracking key indicators helps measure progress and improve the project’s impact. However, tracking too many indicators can be time-consuming, so it’s important to choose the most relevant ones. Targets should also be realistic and not overly ambitious. Gender should be considered when setting indicators.

1. Waste collection and feedstock availability

• Plastic waste collected (tonnes/month) – Measures the amount of raw material available for recycling.
• Number of collection points established – Shows how accessible the project is to the community.
• Percentage of collected plastic that is recyclable – Ensures proper sorting and minimises contamination.

2. Processing efficiency and operations

• Plastic waste processed (tonnes/month) – Tracks how much plastic is turned into usable material.
• Energy consumption per tonne processed (kWh/tonne) – Measures efficiency and sustainability.
• Machine downtime (hours/month) – Assesses how often machines are out of service.

3. Business and market performance

• Revenue from recycled plastic products ($/month) – Shows financial sustainability.
• Number of buyers/customers – Measures market demand.
• Average selling price per kg of recycled plastic ($/kg) – Indicates competitiveness.

4. Environmental and social impact

• Reduction in plastic pollution (%) – Evaluates environmental benefits.
• Number of jobs created (direct & indirect) – Measures social impact.
• CO₂ emissions reduced (kg CO₂ equivalent) – Tracks climate impact.

5. Stakeholder engagement and policy impact

• Number of community awareness events conducted – Tracks education efforts.
• Number of partnerships established (e.g., with municipalities, NGOs, businesses) – Measures collaboration.
• Policy changes influenced (e.g., updated waste management rules) – Shows advocacy success.

Examples of Indicators and Targets Based on the Theory of Change

Output 1: Local communities are aware, trained, and motivated to collect and sort plastic waste

• Indicator: Number of people attending awareness events, broken down by gender.
• Target: 200 men and 300 women.

Direct Outcome 1: Motivated community members actively take part in plastic waste management

• Indicator 1: Number of participants in plastic collection (by gender and community group).
• Target: 50 men, 150 women, and 5 community groups per year.
• Indicator 2: Total payments made to community members and groups.
• Target: X thousand dollars per year.

Project Outcome 1: Plastic waste is collected and managed in a cost-effective and sustainable way

• Indicator 1: Amount of plastic waste collected and processed per month.
• Target: 7 tonnes collected, 5 tonnes processed per month.
• Indicator 2: Revenue from selling recycled plastic.
• Target: X thousand dollars per month.

Key Considerations

• Regular tracking of indicators helps identify successes and areas for improvement.
• Donors assess projects based on indicators and how well targets are met.
• Tracking too many indicators can be time-consuming, so focus on the most important ones.
• Clearly decide who will collect data and track progress, based on what they’re good at. Write this down in a simple M&E plan.
• Gender should be included in data collection to ensure balanced participation.