What is the Draft National Waste Management Strategy 2026 in South Africa?

It is an updated national waste policy published for public comment, designed to guide waste reduction and circular economy outcomes over the next five years.

How does the new waste strategy affect packaging waste in South Africa?

The strategy reinforces the importance of minimising packaging waste and strengthens the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks for managing post-consumer packaging.

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South Africa eyes waste strategy overhaul

Q: When is the deadline for public comment on South Africa's new waste strategy?

Written submissions for the Draft National Waste Management Strategy 2026 are due by mid-February 2026.

5 Feb

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Summary

New waste management strategy published for public comment.
Focus on circular economy and packaging waste reduction.
Public feedback on draft strategy due by mid-February 2026.

South Africa eyes waste strategy overhaul

South Africa's Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has released the Draft National Waste Management Strategy 2026 for public review. This updated policy aims to guide the nation's approach to waste reduction and resource recovery over the next five years, emphasizing circular economy principles.

The strategy outlines priorities for the waste sector, with a significant focus on packaging waste streams. It reinforces the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks, which already mandate producers to manage post-consumer packaging waste and encourage sustainable product design.

Industry stakeholders and the public are invited to submit written comments on the draft strategy until mid-February 2026. Following this consultation, the final strategy is anticipated for adoption later in 2026, succeeding the previous iteration and enhancing South Africa's waste management framework.