Paper recycling has a negative impact on rivers
Lee D' Eathe, founder of the Palmiet River Watch, said collecting and wetting cardboard in preparation for recycling is a widespread practice, including on the banks of the Palmiet River along with other more serious forms of pollution.
THE paper and plastic litter lying around the corner of Crompton Street and Gray Place in Pinetown is not only an eyesore for business owners in the area, but they also contributes to the increase in pollution in the Palmiet River.
One of the business owners, who wished to remain anonymous, said people wet their cardboard in the river to make it heavier and then wait for a recycling vehicle to pick it up.
ALSO READ: New tyre recycling plant in Hammarsdale
“This has been happening for some time now and the problem is that they do not clean up and leave their litter lying around. All the litter is going straight down the river and this is really messing up the environment. With the roadworks also taking place, the area looks terrible,” he said.
He added that the other problem is that people burn cables in the bushes and the smell is unbearable and that also has a negative effect on rivers and streams which are already suffering because of all the pollution and the dumping.
Lee D’ Eathe, founder of the Palmiet River Watch, said collecting and wetting cardboard in preparation for recycling is a widespread practice, including on the banks of the Palmiet River along with other more serious forms of pollution.
ALSO READ: Men caught stealing from recycling bin
“The harmful chemicals in printed and packaging material should not be allowed to contaminate our waterways or soils. The enterprising and hardworking individuals who are seeking out an honest living by collecting waste for recycling ought to be supported and encouraged; and the contamination of the environment they cause, along with the risks to the waste collectors themselves, ought to be managed and prevented by the scrap paper, plastic and metal businesses and the recycling industry,” explained D’ Eathe.
He added that he is challenging the formal chemical, pulp and paper, plastic and metal manufacturing and recycling businesses to be creative and support their informal clients, the waste collectors, and provide them dignity to undertake waste collection and preparation without contaminating the environment or being exposed to harmful substances.
Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname (ONLY) to 060 532 5409.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Highway Mail WhatsApp number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts.
