Earth guardian’s triple R mantra gets rewarded
Carmen Jordaan, founder of Whole Earth Recycling, was recognised by the AfriCAN EARTHizen’s Honoree Awards for her environmental sustainability work.
Taking care of the environment is what Fourways resident Carmen Jordaan lives for. As the founder of Whole Earth Recycling non-profit organisation, she has dedicated her life to reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
On World Earth Day, April 22, she received an honoree award at the annual AfriCAN EARTHizen’s Honoree Awards, and she couldn’t be prouder. “Receiving the award was humbling and encouraging,” Jordaan said. “It’s not often that the sometimes unseen work behind waste management and recycling is acknowledged in such a public way, so, this recognition meant a great deal to me and our team.”
Jordaan’s work with her organisation is making a positive impact on the environment. “We are reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, while helping to conserve valuable resources, by collecting recyclables and sorting them.”
Also read: A ton of difference, SteriOne organisation’s glass recycling efforts pay off
One of the most pressing environmental issues in the community is how to deal with waste. “Not just where it goes, but also how much we generate in the first place. Illegal dumping, overflowing landfills, and contamination of recyclables are everyday realities that harm both the environment and the people living closest to these problems.”
She said individuals could make a difference by being more mindful of what they consume, and how they dispose of it. “The three Rs come to mind – Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Simple actions like reducing the amount of packaging that we purchase, supporting local recycling initiatives, like Whole Earth Recycling, and composting food and garden waste, go a long way.”
To those working towards environmental sustainability, Jordaan’s message is clear. “Your efforts matter, even when it feels like you are making a small effort, and no one is watching.”
Read more: 615kg of e-waste collected in successful Fourways Gardens recycling drive
For those just starting a recycling organisation, she advised: “Start small, stay consistent, and stay rooted in your purpose. Don’t wait for perfect conditions, just begin where you are, with what you have.”
Looking ahead, Jordaan plans to continue growing Whole Earth Recycling’s impact by expanding education around waste and recycling, increasing collections, and supporting more sorters through safe and dignified work. “We’re also processing garden and food waste at our compost farm, Whole Earth Organic Farm, turning it into nutrient-rich compost, closing the loop and actively contributing to a more circular, regenerative system.”
Also read: A guide to responsible e-waste disposal in Gauteng
She believes the awards play an important role in promoting environmental awareness. “Platforms like this remind us that we are not alone in this journey, and help build a community of Earth-conscious changemakers across the continent.”
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