Schools start collecting glass for the 2025 glass recycling challenge
Encouraging students to become eco-champions, the 2025 Schools Competition, by The Glass Recycling Company, offers exciting rewards to schools that collect the most glass for recycling.
The Glass Recycling Company (TGRC) is inviting schools across Gauteng, the Western Cape Peninsula, Eastern Cape, and the Greater Durban and Pietermaritzburg areas to take part in its 2025 Annual Schools Competition. The initiative, which began on February 1, aims to promote glass recycling, while offering over R440 000 in rewards through monthly and grand prizes.
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Schools of all levels, preschool, primary, and high school, within the eligible metro areas, can participate by setting up a free glass bank on their premises. Participating schools will compete to collect the most glass bottles and jars, with top recyclers being rewarded throughout the year.
Students are encouraged to rally their communities in support of the initiative, contributing glass items such as soda bottles, jam jars, and condiment containers. This not only helps schools win prizes but also instills a culture of recycling and environmental responsibility.
Beyond the R440 000 prize pool, TGRC provides additional monthly contributions for each ton of glass collected. Schools that show outstanding commitment may also receive further donations at TGRC’s discretion.
“The competition does more than just fundraise for schools; it excites and empowers learners. It helps them apply their knowledge to drive change in their communities,” said TGRC CEO Shabeer Jhetam.
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Last year, just under 100 schools participated, collecting over 441 tons of glass, roughly the weight of 400 cars. For every ton of glass recycled, 1.2 tons of natural resources are saved, and 670kg of CO2 emissions are prevented.
The competition not only teaches students about sustainability but also fosters broader community involvement. Many schools involve parents, local businesses, and even restaurants in their collection efforts, maximising their impact.
Schools interested in joining can sign up via TGRC’s website: https://theglassrecyclingcompany.co.za/schools-competition/. By taking part, they contribute to a cleaner environment while competing for exciting rewards.
TGRC hopes to expand the initiative in future but is currently focused on increasing participation in existing regions. “We want to ensure schools keep up the momentum year-round and continue making a difference,” Jhetam concluded.
With the 2025 prize giving’s just months away, schools have a fresh opportunity to turn glass into gold – both for their institutions and the environment.
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