World Environment Day 2023: Emphasizing Recycling and Collaboration to Beat Plastic Pollution

Fifty years ago, the world embarked on a journey to protect our environment. On June 5, 2023, Cape Town, South Africa, will host the commemoration of the 50th World Environment Day (WED). Spearheaded by the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Ms. Barbara Creecy, in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), this event aims to raise awareness and promote innovative ways to tackle plastic pollution.

The #BeatPlasticPollution Theme

The theme for WED 2023 is #BeatPlasticPollution, emphasizing the elimination of all waste forms, particularly plastic. Plastic pollution has become a global problem, with an alarming 353 million tonnes of plastic waste produced every year. Due to its durability, plastic takes a long time to disintegrate, causing detrimental effects on our oceans and marine life.

Recycling Plants in Cape Town

Minister Creecy will visit two recycling plants in Cape Town on World Environment Day 2023 to gain insight into the benefits of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in support of plastic recycling. These plants, supported by Producer Responsibility Organizations POLYCO and PETCO, showcase the power of recycling in addressing the plastic pollution crisis.

Waste Want, the first recycling plant on her tour, diverts 1,000 tonnes of waste per month, improving local community recycling and addressing waste processing backlogs. The plant began as a small collection company selling recycling materials to recyclers. Now, it successfully employs around 200 people.

The second plant on her tour, CRDC SA RESIN8, focuses on converting plastic into an aggregate modifier for the construction industry. CRDC’s pilot plant processes approximately 420 kg of plastic waste daily, testing various waste streams. Their new facility will have the capacity to process 610 tonnes of plastic waste per month, producing 725 tonnes of RESIN8. CRDC has partnered with various existing waste reclaimers to maximize its positive impact on the environment.

Beach Clean-Up

As a celebration of the World Environment Day 2023 commemoration, Minister Creecy will conclude her visit with a beach clean-up at Macassar Beach. This event exemplifies the commitment of South Africa and the global community to combating plastic pollution and ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.

The Importance of Recycling Initiatives and Collaboration

Throughout the past 50 years, World Environment Day has played a pivotal role in raising awareness and inspiring action to protect our environment. The 50th commemoration in Cape Town emphasizes the significance of recycling initiatives and the power of collaboration between government, industry, and community stakeholders.

The innovative solutions showcased by Waste Want and CRDC SA RESIN8 highlight the importance of tackling plastic pollution head-on. By seeking sustainable ways to mitigate the effects of plastic waste, we can help preserve the beauty of our planet for generations to come.