Alex waste pickers make a killing in Sandton streets
Waste reclaimers from Alexandra are making a killing in the streets of the most affluent square kilometre on the African continent.
Waste reclaimers from Alexandra and its surrounding communities continue to reap the economic and environmental benefits from the collection rounds they make in Sandton.
Community waste pickers’ initative Urban Surfer, who equipped over 50 community waste pickers in November last year, has reported that reclaimers have covered almost 19 000km, collecting and selling over 700 000kg of plastic recyclables worth over more than R1.4 million.
Urban Surfer partnered with Hippo.co.za to provide 50 reclaimers from Alexandra with trolleys, collection bags and gear to help them gather recycled waste.
Urban Surfer head of design and development John Kullmann said the branded quality equipment and personal protective equipment has given the waste pickers a sense of belonging. “They are far more accepted by the public and businesses, which gives them greater access to recyclable waste.”
The waste pickers have since been relocated to reach more areas in Sandton as well as The Parks. “Our goal is to have as much coverage in residential areas as possible, as the reclaimers who collect waste in the suburbs are able to collect more recyclables than those in Alex. By deploying more trolleys into those focus areas, Urban Surfer is maximising its impact.”
Waste reclaimer Kasigo Monaise said the initiative has given him bigger opportunities as he recently used his income from collecting recyclable waste to open a buy-back store in Alexandra. “[Urban Surfer] has showed me that my opportunities are not limited.”
Hippo.co.za CEO Bradley du Chenne added the reclaimers play an essential role in the community but there is an unjustified stigma around them. “They are not dumpster divers, they perform an important, free civic service especially in suburbs where the need is greater than ever before.
“Urban Surfer promotes environmental awareness, bringing the need to recycle to the fore. Waste reclaimers are creating a better city for all of us and we encourage Joburg residents and fellow corporates to support their vital work.”
Related articles:
