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The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) has launched e-waste recycling initiatives in Bushbuckridge and Nkomazi, aiming to tackle the growing environmental threat posed by electronic waste. Partnering with Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs), the department seeks to raise awareness and make e-waste disposal more accessible for communities.
Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts officially launched the two e-waste recycling projects over the weekend, emphasizing the urgency of managing this rapidly growing waste stream.
“E-waste is now considered the fastest-growing waste stream worldwide. The proliferation of technology and the consumer-driven nature of our society have led to millions of tons of electronic devices being discarded each year,” Swarts stated during the launch event in Bushbuckridge.
She highlighted the dangers of e-waste, which often contains hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. Improper disposal can result in these toxins leaching into the soil and groundwater, posing significant risks to both the environment and public health.
South Africa’s E-Waste Challenge
South Africa generates approximately 360,000 tons of e-waste annually, but only 10% is recycled. Many discarded electronic devices also contain valuable metals that could be reused, reducing the demand for raw materials.
To address this issue, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations were introduced. Under this framework, PROs for Electrical and Electronic Equipment collect fees from electronics producers to support e-waste management efforts. According to Swarts, these fees amount to R158 million annually, funding waste collection programs, recycling initiatives, and waste picker incentives.
Encouraging Community Participation
At the launch event, the DFFE partnered with ERA and R2E2 to encourage community engagement by rewarding residents for collecting e-waste. Community members who brought discarded electronics to the event received vouchers ranging from R200 to R500, a move aimed at incentivizing responsible waste disposal.
However, Swarts stressed that beyond financial incentives, the initiative seeks to change public attitudes toward waste management.
“The success of this project relies heavily on community participation. By providing households with easy access to recycling facilities and guidance on proper disposal, we aim to transform the way residents manage their waste,” she explained.
To ensure the sustainability of the program, PROs will collaborate with local enterprises and municipalities to establish designated collection points equipped with specialized bins for e-waste. Local businesses will be responsible for maintaining these sites, ensuring efficient and ongoing waste collection.
Job Creation Through E-Waste Recycling
Beyond environmental benefits, tackling e-waste also presents economic opportunities. The initiative will pay waste pickers for the e-waste they collect, offering them an additional income stream alongside regular waste collection.
“E-waste collection and recycling is a key program overseen by the department and implemented through various PROs, including EWASA, ERA, Circular Energy, and R2E2. These organizations are required to work with municipalities to ensure e-waste collection is effective nationwide,” Swarts stated.
By addressing the e-waste problem head-on, the government is not only protecting the environment but also creating jobs and fostering a circular economy. With many South Africans relying on the land for livelihoods, food production, and recreation, proper waste management is crucial to preserving these essential resources.
The DFFE’s new initiatives mark a significant step toward responsible e-waste disposal, job creation, and environmental protection, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and communities in ensuring a cleaner, safer future.
