The South African plastics industry has welcomed the recent findings released by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), confirming that reusable, plastic shopping bags have the lowest environmental footprint compared to carrier bags made from alternative materials. The study was funded by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and aimed to … [Read more...]
Inaugural awards seek eco-minded fashionistas
The inaugural Twyg Sustainable Fashion Awards are aimed at recognising South African designers who have adopted a sustainable design approach and fostered ethical practices in the fashion industry. They are open for nominations until August 18. Aside from the student award, all nominees must have been in business for at least one year and be able to demonstrate ethical … [Read more...]
Working together for a world without plastic waste
Each year, millions of people around the world are encouraged to refuse single-use plastics as part of “Plastic Free July”. According to the organisers of this campaign, their aim and vision is to see a world without plastic waste. The global plastics industry say they have been advocating and working towards these same goals for the past 25 years. “We are the first to … [Read more...]
Pick n Pay launches ‘nude’ fruit and vegetable wall
Pick n Pay on Monday launched a ‘nude’ fruit and vegetable produce wall - a dedicated plastic and packaging-free zone - in 13 stores across the country as part of a trial to measure customers’ readiness to switch from pre-packaged food to loose products. Retail Executive, Commercial at Pick n Pay, Paula Disberry, said plastic waste remained a concern for many customers, and … [Read more...]
Cape Town’s Street Sleeper wins gold with recycled PVC sleeping bags
Recycling used billboards made from end of life PVC banners not only help keep thousands of homeless city dwellers warm and dry, but has now also received the recognition it deserves from South Africa’s plastic recycling fraternity by walking away with a Gold Award in the category “Novel and Artistic Products” during the South African Plastic Recyclers Organisation (SAPRO) Best … [Read more...]
Upcycling gives waste an exciting new purpose
Upcycling is a fun and creative way to transform old products and packaging into something with a new purpose. According to the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA)’s Waste Management Hierarchy, upcycling, which in the most basic sense is ‘reusing’ waste, is the second most preferred waste management option after ‘reducing’ your waste. Have you ever used an old glass … [Read more...]
Awarding SA’s PET recycling champions
The extraordinary contributions to PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) recycling in South Africa during the course of 2016 by 10 individuals and companies were celebrated at an awards ceremony as part of the PETCO Annual General Meeting, held today at the Radisson Blu Sandton Hotel in Johannesburg. The PETCO awards are designed to recognise individuals, organisations and … [Read more...]
Collect your breadtags to purchase a wheelchair
Did you know that collecting your breadtags can contribute towards the purchase of wheelchairs for needy people? Each year, South Africa celebrates National Disability Rights Awareness month between 3 November and 3 December. As part of this year’s campaign, the Polystyrene Packaging Council (PSPC) is encouraging people to collect their breadtags, which can be used to … [Read more...]
Cleaning up Robben Island for International Coastal Clean-up Day
This past week (12-17 September 2016) marked Clean-up & Recycle SA week, the aim of the week is to increase awareness in South Africans of the many benefits of recycling (socially, environmentally and economically) and the importance of a litter-free environment. This year, we celebrated the twentieth year of South Africa’s active participation in the International … [Read more...]
Minister calls for urgent Industry Waste Management Plans
Specific waste producers must submit their Waste Management Plans within the next 3 months and existing producers must register with the Minister of Environmental Affairs within 30 days of a new notice published in the Government Gazette. On 12 August 2016, the Minister of Environmental Affairs, Mrs Edna Molewa published a notice to the Paper and Packaging; Electrical and … [Read more...]
The future of plastics
It all starts with one. One bottle. One Consumer. And essentially one core message – we only have one world and it’s up to all of us to look after it. One type of plastic that is recycled more than any other in this country is PET, thanks to PETCO, who celebrates its 12th Anniversary this year. They have worked with the plastics industry, community members, … [Read more...]
Reaching out a sustainable hand of comfort to the needy
Can you believe that recycled bottles could turn into warm bedding for those in need? Well, it can, and it does. Legacy Project is a heart-warming initiative that reaches out a caring and comforting hand to challenged communities, and especially also to children. It was developed as part of the ten year birthday celebrations of the PET Recycling Company (Pty) Limited … [Read more...]
Remember your bag this holiday
Summer holidays seem to be taken up with shopping madness at every turn. Not only are there truly practical purchases to be made and gifts to be bought to spoil your loved ones, but the advertising world will cunningly lure you into buying much more than you think you need. If you are planning a family vacation away there are probably groceries to be bought, snacks for the … [Read more...]
