Here’s how SA can recover more of its produced waste

South Africa is at a critical juncture when it comes to managing its waste and promoting recycling. The waste management industry has been around for decades, but with initiatives like Clean Up and Recycle SA Week, the focus on sustainability and recycling has never been more pronounced. Jason McNeil, the Chief Operating Officer at Interwaste, shed light on the opportunities and challenges facing entrepreneurs in the recycling business. McNeil highlighted the increasing ease for entrepreneurs to profit from recycling due to legislative support and a growing social drive towards sustainability. Global trends such as rising commodity prices and demand for recycled materials have made recycling a viable economic option. However, the key lies in finding sustainable off-takes for the recycled materials to ensure long-term viability and demand for the end-products. While South Africa is making progress in recovering recyclable waste, currently only about 10% of waste is being recovered, indicating the need for more significant interventions. There is a growing emphasis on reducing single-use containers and packaging, with a shift towards reusable products. McNeil also addressed the persistent issue of plastic bags, noting that some countries have entirely banned them, and South Africa may soon follow suit. Despite challenges like China's ban on importing recyclable materials, there are opportunities for local beneficiation of waste, leading to job creation and economic benefits. The recycling industry in South Africa is undergoing a transformation, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. As McNeil emphasized, there is a growing awareness of the need to rethink waste management practices and embrace a circular economy approach. By reducing reliance on single-use plastics, promoting recycling, and investing in local recycling infrastructure, South Africa can pave the way for a more sustainable future. The call to action is clear: it's time for corporates, individuals, and policymakers to collaborate and drive meaningful change in waste management and recycling practices.