Resolution/revolution: Your role in South Africa's recycling movement in 2025 - Mpact Recycling

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Resolution/revolution: Your role in South Africa's recycling movement in 2025

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Published: Friday, 10 January 2025 13:16

As we enter 2025, the call to action for individuals to play a part in saving the environment has never been louder. Recycling is no longer just a "good habit" – it’s a necessity. Each piece of waste you recycle contributes to a larger movement that can help combat environmental degradation and create a sustainable future for South Africa.

This year let’s turn our personal resolutions into a collective revolution. By making small but meaningful changes in our daily lives, we can be the driving force behind a cleaner, greener country.

Why your recycling habits matter

Every item you recycle makes a difference. Recycling is not just about reducing the huge volume of waste we send to landfill – it’s about conserving resources, saving energy, and reducing pollution. When you recycle, you help:

  • Save resources: Recycling items like paper and plastic reduces the need to extract raw materials, which means sustainable forests continue to prosper and the need for fossil fuels is cut down.
  • Reduce energy use and pollution: Recycling processes often use significantly less energy than creating products from scratch, cutting down on harmful emissions.
  • Reducing the greenhouse gasses created by landfills: Recycling means less waste accumulating in landfills, which reduces methane emissions and prevents soil and water contamination.

What South Africans need to know about recycling

South Africans produce around 122 million tonnes of waste each year, and only about 10% of all of it is recycled. While this number may seem discouraging, the good news is that every individual effort adds up. For example, in 2023 alone, over 431,800 tonnes of plastics were recycled in South Africa. That’s thanks, in large part, to people like you making recycling a part of their routine.

The informal sector plays a part in this success. Waste pickers contribute to the recycling economy each year by collecting materials that many of us overlook. By separating recyclable waste at home, you make their job easier and help the system function more effectively.

The common barriers – and how you can overcome them

Even the most well-intentioned recycler can face obstacles. Here are some common challenges and solutions:

  • Confusion about what can be recycled: Many people aren’t sure what materials their local recycling programs accept. Start by focusing on items like paper, plastic, glass, and cans. If in doubt, check with your local municipality or a recycling organisation (like Mpact Recycling).
  • Lack of access to recycling facilities: If your area doesn’t have kerbside recycling, look for drop-off points nearby. Supermarkets and community centres often have collection bins for specific recyclables.
  • Feeling like it won’t make a difference: Every piece of waste you recycle adds up. Small actions, when multiplied by millions of people, can have a massive impact.

How to make recycling part of your routine

Adopting a few simple habits can make recycling second nature:

  1. Separate your waste: Keep a separate bin for recyclables like paper, glass, and plastic. Ensure items are clean and dry to ensure their recyclability.
  2. Get the family involved: Teach children the importance of recycling and make it a family activity. The earlier they start, the more likely they are to carry the habit into adulthood.
  3. Support the informal sector: Separating recyclables makes it easier for waste pickers to collect them. You can also support recycling buy-back centres or donate items directly to those who rely on this work for their livelihood.
  4. Think beyond the bin: Participate in the circular economy by practicing preference for products either made from, or packaged in, recycled materials, and supporting businesses that prioritise sustainability.

Why 2025 is the year to start living sustainably

The start of 2025 marks a crucial turning point for sustainability in South Africa. With rising environmental concerns and the global spotlight on combating waste, there has never been a better time to commit to sustainable living. Adopting a lifestyle that prioritises recycling, reducing waste, and making eco-conscious choices is not only good for the planet, but also an investment in your community and future generations.

Here’s why 2025 is the perfect year to begin: 

  • The waste crisis is escalating: With only 10% of South Africa’s waste being recycled, there’s an urgent need for individuals to act. The more people who commit to recycling and reducing waste, the closer we’ll get to turning this trend around.
  • Momentum is growing: Public awareness of environmental issues has grown significantly, with campaigns like Global Recycling Day and initiatives by organisations like Plastics SA, Petco, Polyco, Fibre Circle, PAMSA, and of course Mpact Recycling, driving education and participation. By joining these efforts, you’ll be part of a larger movement that’s gaining traction.
  • It’s easier than ever to start: Recycling infrastructure is improving across the country, with more drop-off points, collection services, and community programs available. Widely available recycling guides make it simpler to identify recyclable materials.
  • Sustainable choices are more accessible: Eco-friendly products and practices are no longer niche. From energy-efficient appliances to packaging made from recycled materials, the market is shifting toward sustainable alternatives. Supporting these options sends a powerful message to companies about what consumers value.
  • Climate change demands immediate action: Sustainable living isn’t just about waste – it’s about reducing your carbon footprint. Recycling, conserving energy, and choosing sustainable products all contribute to a healthier planet. Starting in 2025 aligns with the urgent need to curb climate change before its effects become irreversible.

Turning resolutions into a revolution

Recycling isn’t just about the environment – it’s about building a better future for everyone. By committing to small, consistent changes in 2025, you’re joining a national movement that strengthens communities, protects our planet, and inspires others to do the same.

This year let’s turn good intentions into meaningful action. Make recycling a habit, involve your family, and spread the word to friends and neighbours. Together, we can transform South Africa into a model for sustainable living – one recycled item at a time.

When we unite our efforts, we can achieve incredible results. Your participation is crucial for making a lasting impact in 2025 and beyond.

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