TEDx highlights Africa’s local projects tackling waste and sustainability challenges
At TEDxJohannesburg, projects highlight that climate action starts in communities. Urban Surfer is transforming recycling, providing workers with respect, income, and purpose. This initiative showcases local innovators who convert waste into opportunities and positive impact.
GIBS Business School in Illovo hosted Day 1 of the TEDxJohannesburg Countdown 2025 on October 24 and 25, one of only 18 official TED Countdown Anchor Events worldwide this year.
With the theme Countdown 2025: to a greener, fairer, thriving future, the two-day gathering brought together Africa’s leading thinkers and innovators to tackle the climate crisis ahead of global G20 and COP30 meetings.
The event was spread across Sandton and Rosebank, blending immersive activations, thought-provoking talks, and real-world project visits. Day one, themed: From Ideas to Action, began at GIBS Business School and took attendees across the city to explore solutions in transportation, water, food security, and creative activism. Among the sessions were the Future of Travel in the Age of Climate Change, the Dignity Design Challenge, and a visit to innovative urban sustainability projects.
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Project outshine the rest
One project that particularly stood out was Urban Surfer, a recycling initiative in Parktown that is transforming the lives of Johannesburg’s reclaimers. Led by Sifiso Gumbi, the project has not only increased reclaimer income by up to 300% but also restored dignity and visibility to workers often overlooked in the city’s waste system.
“They are now humanised and more dignified,” says Gumbi, explaining how branded bags, protective gear, and solar-powered operations have changed perceptions.
Urban Surfer operates entirely off the grid, with reclaimers collecting and sorting materials themselves. The initiative emphasises that recycling is a science and a livelihood. High-value items such as aluminium and PET plastics help sustain incomes, while communal processing spaces and upgraded trolleys make the work safer and more efficient.
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Partnerships with Hollard Insurance, Polycer, and local authorities further support reclaimer livelihoods, while advocacy for South Africa’s Extended Producer Responsibility legislation ensures companies take responsibility for the lifecycle of their products.
The event showcased Africa’s innovative climate solutions. Urban Surfer reminded attendees that some of the most impactful change begins on the streets. Real action, it seems, starts not just with ideas, but with people whose work gives both waste and lives new purpose.
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