The annual review for 2018/2019, themed ‘Embracing Change’, was presented by CEO, Shabeer Jhetam, who applauded South Africans for their continued recycling efforts.
Since TGRC’s inception 15 years ago, 50 000 income opportunities have been created, 4 017 glass banks have been placed across South Africa, and 3.9-million tons of non-returnable glass has been recycled.
‘The mission to change is further being driven with the implementation of a national extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme, which sees producers becoming accountable for the end-of-life impacts of their products and packaging,’ said Shabeer.
He added that every role player has a vested interest in the success of the EPR scheme, as the failure to meet government requirements will culminate in a more expensive way forward. For instance, the implementation of a tax, or other alternatives such as the ban on certain types of packaging.
‘The implementation of EPR schemes will play a central role in an impactful and sustainable societal shift towards recycling. To help achieve this, we’ll continue our ongoing commitment to partner with, guide, and positively influence manufacturers, government and other stakeholders in the formulation and delivery of effective glass recycling legislation, policies and practices.’
Other highlights during the 2018/2019 fiscal year included more than 80% of all glass packaging diverted from landfills through reuse and recycling, 2.3-million glass bottles and jars recycled through the organisation’s Annual Schools Competition, and 3 303 glass entrepreneurs trained.
‘Without individuals, businesses and communities who continue to make glass recycling a habit, continue to play their part, and support a sustainable future, we wouldn’t have seen this phenomenal increase in recycling since our inception,’ Shabeer concluded.
