A pilot project to tackle e-Waste in John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) District at Mothibistad, this week, is one initiative to chip away at South Africa’s 360,000 tonnes of e-waste annually.
Speaking at the launch, Bernice Swarts, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DAFF), said the initiative aims to improve responsible e-waste management, raise community awareness, reduce waste to landfill, and unlock economic opportunities through recycling, skills development and SMME participation.
The E-Waste Recycling Pilot Project is expected to serve residents in the Ga-Segonyana Local Municipality, Mothibistad, in the Northern Cape.
E-waste or electronic waste, refers to any discarded electrical or electronic equipment that is broken, unwanted, or at the end of its useful life. This includes computers, mobile phones, televisions, large household appliances (refrigerators, washing machines), and smaller items like toys and lighting.
Electronics contain hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, beryllium, and brominated flame retardants.
When dumped in landfills, these toxins can leach into the soil and groundwater, damaging ecosystems and poisoning water sources.
Swarts encouraged the public with interest to establish E-waste Buy-Back Centres in JTG.
The public can organise themselves in groups, visit the local office of the Department of Forestry, Fishery and the Environment to register and get proper guidance. In her discussions with Traditional leaders, Swarts requested them to avail land for E-Waste Buy-Back Centres.
The DFFE is expected to return to the district to monitor the projects.
A similar initiative was led by Tshitereke Matibe, MEC of the Limpopo Department of Environment (LEDET).
Matibe led the destruction of illegal gambling machines in Polokwane‘s rural areas and townships.
He said the operation was undertaken in line with the Limpopo Gambling Act, which prohibits the possession and operation of gambling machines without a valid licence.
In his address, Matibe, revealed that both foreign and local illegal gambling cartels are responsible for the distribution of the confiscated gambling machines.
Picture: Supplied