The George municipality invites all waste pickers who are interested in joining the newly initiated Waste Picker Integration Programme, to register on the official database.
The Municipality in partnership with Henque Waste, EWASA, Polyco, and the Department of Environmental Affairs, officially launched the Waste Picker Integration Programme on 17 October 2024.
This initiative aims to formalize the role of waste pickers in George by transitioning them from informal waste collection to a structured and sustainable programme.
As a result, to mark this milestone in South Africa’s waste industry, the Municipality and Henque Waste, handed over fifteen trollies to waste pickers at the launch.
Marchel Kleynhans, MMC for Community Services, said “I am thrilled to see the improvement in waste collection services through the formalisation of waste pickers.
This initiative will significantly benefit the public by boosting recycling rates, providing financial gains for waste pickers and promoting public health, safety, and environmental sustainability.”
Waste pickers, also referred to as reclaimers, earn their living by collecting recyclable materials from waste and selling them into the recycling value chain. They also salvage reusable items for personal use or resale, contributing to the circular economy.
Douw Bezuidenhout of Henque Waste acknowledged the significant role played by recliners.
“We purchase nearly 82 tonnes of recyclables monthly from waste pickers. The war on waste is larger than any of us can imagine, but together, we are stronger, and we can work towards a cleaner, more sustainable future he said.
More information can be obtained from the George Municipality’s Community Services at 82 Meade Street and contact Yolanda Malithe programme’s registration coordinator at 044 802 2900.
Picture: Supplied