Joburg marks global Recycling Day with educational sessions on waste management

The City of Johannesburg’s Waste Management and Regulation Unit, under the Environment and Infrastructure Services Department (EISD), has partnered with various stakeholders to host waste recycling information-sharing sessions commemorating Global Recycling Day.

Global Recycling Day, celebrated annually on March 18, highlights the critical role of recycling in fostering a sustainable environment. The 2025 theme focuses on educating and inspiring individuals, businesses, and governments to enhance recycling efforts and embrace a circular economy.

To mark this occasion the city will host information-sharing sessions on recycling to raise awareness, enhance knowledge, and engage the community in recycling initiatives.

The objectives of the sessions include:

• Raising awareness of the importance of recycling and waste management in protecting the environment.

• Educating participants on recycling processes, materials, and proper disposal methods.

• Engaging local businesses, government representatives, and community members in sustainable practices.
• Promoting innovative recycling solutions and partnerships.

• Encouraging individuals to adopt recycling habits in their daily lives.

Key discussion topics will include:

• Recycling is a cornerstone of a circular economy.

• The environmental impact of recycling.

• Innovative solutions in recycling and waste management.

Makhosazana Mtshali, director of Waste Management and Regulation at EISD, explained: “One of the biggest challenges the city faces is the growing volumes of waste generated by residents and the diminishing landfill space for waste disposal.

“The city disposes of over 1.4 million tons of waste annually, all deposited at the city’s four operational landfill sites, which have less than five years available disposal airspace.”

Mtshali also emphasised illegal dumping in the city’s open spaces, which requires urgent intervention to address problematic waste streams like builders’ rubble and green waste.

“Population growth, consumerism, and urban development are major contributors to the ever-increasing volumes of waste. If the current trend continues, the city will run out of space for waste disposal within the next five years,” she noted.

The city is working on amending the Waste Regulation By-laws of 2022, which are currently in their final draft for gazetting, and developing the Alternative Waste Treatment Technologies project.