An empowerment fund established by packaging producer responsibility organisation Petco is beginning to show results in advancing small and medium-sized businesses within South Africa’s recycling sector.
The Petco Empowerment Fund, financed through contributions from producer members and other partners, provides financial and technical support to B-BBEE Level 1 enterprises. The initiative is intended to expand operational capacity and increase the collection of recyclable packaging.
Petco chief executive officer Telly Chauke said the aim was to strengthen participation at all levels of the recycling value chain.
“We should be creating a pipeline of growth by providing support at all levels – from waste picker projects right up to emerging industrialists – to assist them to participate meaningfully in the value chain, and ensure a stronger, more inclusive recycling landscape in South Africa,” Chauke said.
Among the first recipients is KwaZulu-Natal-based Why Waste, which has been active in the sector for nearly three decades. The 100% black-owned company, employing 59 people and working with around 230 independent waste collectors, processes over 6,000 tonnes of recyclables annually.
Why Waste used most of its R1.3 million grant to acquire capital equipment, including a four-ton truck, double-axle trailer and mobile baling machine.
“With this new equipment, we are now able to process more recyclables, reduce transport costs, and improve turnaround times,” said Razia Patel, the company’s head of finance and marketing.
Petco general manager for recycling and collections, Samu Mkhize, said Why Waste was selected for its growth potential, sustainability focus and alignment with transformation objectives.
The company expects to increase collection volumes by up to 25%, keeping an additional 1,500 tonnes of recyclable packaging out of landfill annually.