Circular Energy NPC is leading the fight against harmful landfill practices by ensuring end-of-life products are disposed of safely and responsibly with the environment in mind.

The Ballito-based producer responsibility organisation helps to keep toxic metals and chemicals from dumpsites, protecting surrounding communities at the same time.

Circular Energy operates in line with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s (DFFE) Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations, introduced in May 2021. The regulations mean that manufacturers are responsible for the safe disposal of their products once they are no longer in use, shifting the onus away from the customer.

“Our role is to provide oversight of that process and of the facilities that process waste,” said Circular Energy operations and reporting manager Ronell David.

“We are mandated to make sure that legislation is followed and that the goals introduced by the EPR Regulations are met.”

Circular Energy has a number of local partnerships to simplify the e-waste disposal process.

Dolphin Coast Waste Management, which operates solid waste collections from Ballito to Groutville, will pick up and safely dispose of e-waste products and expanded polystyrene (EPS) placed in their recycling bags or dropped off at their facility alongside its normal paper, plastic and can recycling service.

“E-waste, including lighting and batteries, is prohibited from being sent to landfills,” said David.

“You can also drop off lighting and batteries at Woolworths in Ballito Junction and Ballito Lifestyle Centre, and batteries only at SUPERSPAR Tiffany’s. For large electronic waste, we offer a take-back system with free collection nationwide.”

The DFFE will also visit KwaDukuza in July as part of its imbizo series to promote waste management best practices in rural areas. Keep an eye on social media for an exact date once it has been confirmed.

Outside of responsible disposal, Circular Energy promotes recycling programmes in a bid to create a truly circular economy as recycling rates remain low across South Africa, highlighting the need for greater community participation. Local residents are encouraged to become more actively involved in recycling initiatives and to reach out to Circular Energy with any concerns, challenges, or ideas that could help improve recycling outcomes in the area.

A perfect example of the circular economy in action is a partnership between the organisation’s charity wing, Energy 4 Hope, and iKhethelo Children’s Village in the Valley of 1 000 Hills. Energy 4 Hope collected, refurbished and installed 300 solar panels in a pilot project that has given the 45 children at iKhethelo regular and consistent access to electricity.

To find out more about the work Circular Energy does, visit circular-energy.org or follow its social media pages.