WESTERN CAPE NEWS - The Western Cape celebrates Global Recycling Day on 18 March 2026, highlighting the importance of responsible waste management and the role recycling plays in sustaining the environment while supporting the waste economy especially for our SMME sector.
As populations grow and consumption increases, effective waste management and recycling have become essential to reducing environmental impacts and conserving landfill airspace and natural resources.
Recycling diverts valuable materials such as paper, plastics, glass, organics and metals from landfill sites, allowing them to be reused in various processes and supporting the transition towards a more circular economy.
The Western Cape Government continues to work with municipalities, industry and communities to strengthen waste management systems, including organic waste management, expand recycling initiatives and encourage waste separation at source across the province.
Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, said Global Recycling Day highlights the value of responsible waste management and the role recycling plays in protecting the environment.
“Global Recycling Day reminds us that waste is not simply something to discard. Many of the materials we throw away still have value and can be recovered and reused. By strengthening recycling practices and improving how we manage waste, we can protect our natural resources while supporting economic opportunities within the recycling sector.” said Minister Anton Bredell.
Head of Department for Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Gerhard Gerber said collaboration across government, industry and communities remains key to improving waste management systems.
“The Western Cape continues to prioritise initiatives that reduce waste to landfill and improve recycling across the province. Through partnerships with municipalities, businesses, Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) and communities, we are working to strengthen waste management systems that support both environmental sustainability and long-term economic resilience.” said Gerber
Director for Waste Management, Saliem Haider, said that small actions taken by individuals can collectively make a significant difference.
“Recycling begins with everyday choices. By separating waste or composting at home, reducing what we throw away and supporting local recycling programmes, residents can help reduce pressure on landfill sites and ensure valuable resources remain in use within the economy. The role of wastepickers cannot be underestimated as they play a key role in ensuring that diversion happens and it is for this reason that wastepicker integration is essential in the system approach.” said Haider
Global Recycling Day serves as a reminder that everyone has a role to play.
By reducing waste, recycling responsibly, composting organic waste and supporting local recycling initiatives, residents and businesses can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Western Cape.
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