The Basket of Waste Services Roadshow: An Initiative for Cleaner Communities

The Urban Waste Management (UWM) Directorate in the city is taking significant strides in waste management and community engagement through its innovative Basket of Waste Services Roadshow. This unique program is set to visit the Saxonsea Community Hall on Tuesday, 11 July 2023, providing residents with an opportunity to interact with representatives from various waste services departments. The event will also witness the next rollout of home composting containers, which are a vital component of the city’s waste minimization strategy.

A Multifaceted Program for Responsible Waste Management

The Basket of Waste Services Roadshow is a multifaceted program aimed at increasing awareness and promoting responsible waste management practices. It comprises several distinct yet interrelated services, each focusing on a specific aspect of urban waste management. These services are:

1. Cleansing Services: A comprehensive approach to area cleaning, removal of illegal dumping, and refuse collection in informal settlements.
2. Refuse Collection Services: Ensuring efficient emptying of the 240l wheelie bins on collection days, promoting the Think-Twice recycling collection service in participating areas, and providing contact details of relevant service providers.
3. Waste Minimization: Guiding stakeholders on strategies to increase waste minimization and fostering a circular economy in Cape Town.
4. Events and Partnerships: Collaborating with volunteers for community clean-up events and other waste management partnerships.
5. Policy and Strategy: Developing and implementing the Integrated Waste Management Policy and By-law, and providing strategic support for waste management service providers.
6. By-law Enforcement: Combating illegal dumping through diligent enforcement of the Integrated Waste Management By-law.
7. Revenue Management: Setting tariffs and managing budgets for the directorate, ensuring proper allocation of collected revenue.

Home Composting Containers for Waste Minimization

The highlight of the event is the rollout of 200 home composting containers, which will be available at no cost to residents on a first-come-first-served basis. To avail this benefit, residents must present a recent municipal account and their ID book/card at the Revenue Management branch’s table. These home composting containers are significant in the city’s waste minimization strategy as they help divert organic waste from landfills, thus prolonging landfill life and reducing global warming potential.

Fostering a Culture of Responsible Waste Management

The Basket of Waste Services Roadshow’s visit to Saxonsea is a crucial step towards fostering a culture of responsible waste management and community involvement. By providing essential waste services and promoting waste minimization through home composting, the UWM Directorate is paving the way for cleaner, greener, and more sustainable communities.

Through a blend of awareness, policy, and practical solutions, the Roadshow empowers citizens to become active participants in waste management and environmental stewardship. The initiative serves as a reminder that cleaner neighborhoods and a healthier planet are achievable goals when communities, government agencies, and waste management service providers work together.

A Catalyst for Positive Change

As the Basket of Waste Services Roadshow continues to visit various communities, it carries the promise of a cleaner, greener future for all. By engaging residents and addressing their concerns, this initiative is proving to be a powerful catalyst for positive change in the realm of urban waste management.