Daveyton unites for Global Recycling Day
Learners participated as eco-guides which demonstrated the growing involvement of young people in environmental awareness and action.
Residents, environmental organisations and learners came together to mark Global Recycling Day (March 19), at the Vutwa Mini Recycling Centre in Barcelona, Daveyton, with activities held near the Blesbokspruit Wetland.
Hosted by Vutwa Waste Services, the event highlighted the importance of recycling and environmental responsibility in communities directly affected by pollution and waste.
The initiative was supported by several partners, including EnviroServ, PETCO, MetPac-SA, University of Johannesburg Nursing Department, Ekurhuleni Community Engagement, Oxfam and the Gauteng Department of Environment.
Set against the backdrop of the Blesbokspruit wetland, an ecosystem currently under pressure from littering and nearby human activity, the event served as both a celebration and a call to action.
One of the cleaners, Portia Ngcongwane said the state of the wetland remains a concern.
“We see the litter every day and it’s painful, because this place used to be clean,” the resident said.
“Events like this remind people that we all have a role to play.”
Learners from local schools, including Barcelona Primary School, Quantum High School, Tsipinoto Primary School, Silindokuhle Primary School, Thembelihle Primary School and Sazakhele Primary School, participated as eco-guides which demonstrated the growing involvement of young people in environmental awareness and action.
The chairman of the Etwatwa Greening Group, Vusi Matladi emphasised the importance of protecting natural spaces such as the wetland.
“The Blesbokspruit is not just water, it supports life, it supports communities. If we don’t take care of it, we are putting our own future at risk.”
He added that collaboration between organisations, schools and residents is key to creating lasting change.
The day’s activities showcased how collective efforts can contribute to cleaner environments while encouraging communities to take ownership of their surroundings.
With the Blesbokspruit wetland continuing to face environmental challenges, initiatives such as these highlight the urgent need for awareness, action and sustained community involvement.
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