IN recent months, the area under the Connaught Bridge used by the Roadhouse Crescent Recyclers has been a space transformed.

This is thanks to various role-players, including Green Corridors and the eThekwini Economic Development Unit.

The recyclers were recently sponsored Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the form of a new, easily recognisable kit which includes a branded shirt, a sunhat, protective gloves, safety boots and overalls.

Siphiwe Rakgabale, the Green Corridors’ litter-boom and clean-up coordinator, explained the number of changes that have taken place.

“The space where the recyclers work under the bridge has now been fenced with shade-cloth. We’ve also put in a boom gate to stop illegal dumpers from entering the space after hours which was happening in the past. We’ve almost formalised the area by putting in sorting bays for various collections, including paper, cardboard and plastic. We even have a baling machine which helps compact the waste for easier collection. The great thing has also been the new uniforms for the guys – we are working on name cards so the local community will know who they are dealing with.

“I’ve also started a little garden on the pavement outside the recycling and sorting area. We also wanted to let the community know that we don’t take household items, however, if they have recyclable items, we welcome them dropping those items off should they choose. We want to foster a relationship with residents. These collectors work in and around Durban North and Chris Hani Road (North Coast Road) collecting plastic, paper and cardboard waste, and local businesses and residents also bring waste here,” he said.

Rakgabale explained that the waste is sorted, compacted and then collected by various Material Recovery Facilities, including Green Corridors’ Research and Development Division – KwaMashu Materials Beneficiation Centre (KMBC) – which provides technical support for this complex ‘ecosystem’ and also repurposes the waste.

One of the recyclers at Roadhouse Crescent, George Moyo, also expressed his gratitude for all those involved in the rejuvenation of the space.

“We are very grateful for the opportunity to be able to continue our recycling programme and expand it. Previously, we were known as the cardboard collectors, and while we did recycle, there were concerns from the community about litter and waste created. Through this programme, we now have cleaned up the area and formalised the space more. We’ve also fostered a good appreciation from the Durban North community for the work we do. With our new outfits, we hope to stand out so people will know us and see what we do,” he said.

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