Recycling Heroes Save Millions

Informal reclaimers in South Africa play a crucial role in the nation's recycling efforts. These individuals are responsible for recovering an estimated 80-90% of the country's recycled plastic and paper.

Their work provides significant economic benefits, saving municipalities approximately R750 million annually. Urban Surfer South Africa actively supports these reclaimers by supplying them with essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and specially designed trolleys.

The organization has established four hubs where reclaimers can conveniently sort, bale, and sell their collected materials directly. Utilizing GPS-enabled trolleys and a real-time dashboard, the program tracks collections and has reported substantial income increases for reclaimers, with some experiencing gains of up to 300%.

Discussions highlight that collection patterns are primarily driven by market prices. To further develop a circular economy, there is a recognized need for improved infrastructure, secure funding, and increased trust within the sector.