Recycling holds a transformative power in our efforts to combat the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste. By adopting a robust recycling culture, we can divert plastics from landfills, conserve resources, and mitigate the detrimental impacts of plastic pollution.
At its core, recycling is a process that converts used plastic items into new materials, reducing the need for virgin plastic production. This circular approach helps break the linear “take-make-dispose” model and instead creates a closed-loop system where materials are continuously re-used.
The power of recycling lies in its ability to conserve valuable resources and energy. By recycling plastic, we reduce the demand for raw materials, such as fossil fuels, that are used in plastic production. This helps to preserve natural resources, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and alleviate the strain on our environment.
Moreover, recycling plays a crucial role in tackling the issue of plastic pollution. When plastic waste is properly recycled, it is prevented from entering our oceans, rivers, and ecosystems, where it can harm wildlife and contribute to the degradation of our environment. Recycling enables us to give plastic a second life and prevent it from becoming a persistent pollutant.
Effectiverecycling systems require collaboration among individuals, businesses, and governments. Communities must have access to convenient recycling infrastructure and clear guidelines on what can be recycled. Businesses should adopt sustainable packaging practices and support the use of recycled materials. Governments can implement policies and incentives to promote recycling and invest in recycling facilities and technologies.
Education and awareness also play a crucial role in unleashing the power of recycling. By educating individuals about the importance of recycling, proper sorting techniques, and the environmental benefits, we can inspire behavioural changes and foster a sense of responsibility towards waste management.
“The Power of R; recycle” emphasises the importance of recycling as a key solution to our plastic waste crisis. It reminds us that each recycling effort, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement for a more sustainable future. By embracing recycling, we harness the power to reduce waste, conserve resources, and create a healthier planet for generations to come.
Where to recycle plastics in South Africa
The Sustainable Sea Trust has an interactive map that shows thousands of collectors, recyclers, depots, landfills, swap shops and buy-back centres in most major centres in South Africa.
If you live in the Western Cape, the Green Map has a list of recycling companies that cover different areas of Cape Town. Some offer collections; others have drop-off points.
Some suburbs in South Africa have recycling collection services run by civic associations or community groups for a monthly fee.
For more remote suburbs in South Africa, search community Facebook pages or a local directory for recycling depots and drop-off points.
What can be recycled?
Knowledge is power. Please dispose of these items responsibly and don’t allow them to end up in a landfill.
Tin and can recycling in South Africa is one of the areas of waste management that is on the increase, especially in households.
Anything that runs on batteries or electricity is considered eWaste
Glass recycling in South Africa is on the increase.
Liquid packaging, which is sometimes referred to as Tetrapak, is a grade of packaging material which is now recyclable.
When it comes to office paper recycling or paper and cardboard recycling, there is a wide range of paper materials that can be diverted from landfill.
Plastic materials are widely recycled
When it comes to office paper recycling or paper and cardboard recycling, there is a wide range of paper materials that can be diverted from landfill.
Plastic materials are widely recycled
Tin and can recycling in SouthAfrica is one of the areas of waste management that is on the increase, especially in households.
Anything that runs on batteries or electricity is considered eWaste
Glass recycling in South Africa is on the increase.
Liquid packaging, which is sometimes referred to as Tetrapak, is a grade of packaging material which is now recyclable.
What PLASTICS can be recycled?
HDPE
Robust and stable material for recycling – Best in class
HDPE product diversity and properties varies and have impact on recyclable product performance
Food contact technology to be improved and developed
Excellent for non-food contact applications
PET
Most recycled material and a singular grade
Vanilla product – Major market all the same
Collection effort well advanced
Properties deteriorate if not done correctly – Sensitive but controllable
Food contact product leader
PP
Sensitive to degradation due to chemistry
Food contact technology to be improved and developed
Excellent for non-food contact applications
PET
Most recycled material and a singular grade
Vanilla product – Major market all the same
Collection effort well advanced
Properties deteriorate if not done correctly – Sensitive but controllable
Food contact product leader
HDPE
Robust and stable material for recycling – Best in class
HDPE product diversity and properties varies and have impact on recyclable product performance
Food contact technology to be improved and developed
Excellent for non-food contact applications
PP
Sensitive to degradation due to chemistry
Food contact technology to be improved and developed
Excellent for non-food contact applications
School Club Education Workbooks
School Club is an influential and dynamic public-private educational platform. It reaches over two million learners and their families each year. Workbooks, posters, recognition stickers, certificates and other learner, teacher and support materials are provided to schools for free through this programme.
Together we can create a circular economy.
Plastic waste doesn't belong in the environment
Here is where you can have your say, contribute to change and make your mark. Simply click on your areas of interest below to explore.
Let's all plastic responsibly.
@2024 Let's plastic responsibly
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