Mats are made by artisans at the Association for the Protection of the Environment (APE), a job skills and educational program for women living and working in Manshiyat Nasser, known as “Garbage City.” UNESCO teamed up with APE, to train "zabbaleen" in business and recycling. The handicrafts are made from clean, recycled materials, and proceeds return to support APE and provide increased opportunities for youngsters in the community.