Press releases

Separation at source prevents contamination of recyclables

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Published: Tuesday, 22 October 2024 10:07

(Johannesburg, October 2024) Separation at source is a practice that prevents recyclable waste from entering landfill sites by promoting effective recycling habits within communities and workplaces. By sorting different types of recyclables such as dry, residual, and biological waste we can minimise contamination and enhance the quality of recyclable materials. While paper and glass are commonly recyclable, improper sorting can lead to issues. For example, a broken glass bottle poses safety concerns and could result in the entire load being rejected for sorting at a facility. Materials are not quickly sent to landfill; only when contamination significantly diminishes their quality do they become non-recyclable.

According to Interwaste’s state of the South Africa waste industry report, in South Africa, over 122 million tonnes of waste is produced annually and only 10% of this waste is currently recycled. It is therefore vital that recycling efforts are increased to address the country’s waste management crisis by reducing landfill usage and conserving its natural resources.

As the leading recycler in South Africa, Mpact Recycling is committed to fostering sustainable practices and improving waste diversion rates through strategic education and innovative solutions.

John Hunt, Managing Director of Mpact Recycling, emphasises that a source separated recycling programme can make it easier for people to know where to place their recyclables when it is well communicated and maintained.

“Separation at source is a fundamental step in creating a more efficient and effective recycling system,” Hunt stated. “Simple steps like a recycling poster to post above bins at home, school or in the office, can go a long way in ensuring that recyclable materials are processed correctly.”

“It is important to know the difference between recyclable materials and those that are biodegradable or compostable,” he says. “Many people justify dumping the latter since the perception is that it will simply disappear and break down into natural elements. This isn’t always the case, and in many instances, it can also contaminate the recycling waste stream.”

Hunt explains that separating recyclables from general waste helps to streamline the recycling process, making it easier to sort and process materials. This, in turn, increases the quality of recyclable materials and reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

“Our goal is to educate and empower communities and workplaces to adopt source separation practices,” Hunt added. “By doing so, we not only enhance the efficiency of recycling programmes but also contribute to a more sustainable environment.”

There are a number of ways for people to get involved and become part of this circular economy. Households separating their own recyclables from everyday refuse is the most efficient. Giving these recyclables to a local collector or dropping them off at a local shopping centre are good options.

Mpact Recycling has developed a range of resources and tools to assist organisations and households in implementing effective source separation practices. These include educational materials, signage, and specialised bins designed to facilitate easy sorting of waste.

“We believe that with the right tools and knowledge, every individual can play a significant role in improving recycling outcomes and reduce the lessen the quantity of waste dumped in landfills,” Hunt concludes. “It is about creating a culture of responsibility and sustainability that starts at the source.”