South Africa’s recycling industry shines as Petco meets 99% of recycling targets, transforming waste management and driving socio-economic impact.
The South Africa recycling industry witnessed unparalleled success in 2024, thanks to the efforts of Petco, the country’s leading producer responsibility organisation (PRO). Petco achieved remarkable milestones by meeting 99% of the legislated recycling targets for identified products placed on the market by its members. This achievement underscores the organisation’s commitment to driving a sustainable circular economy, reducing landfill usage, and creating socio-economic opportunities.
South Africa recycling industry
Over the past year, Petco worked tirelessly alongside its 29 members, which include big brands such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Tiger Brands, and Tetra Pak, to recycle PET plastic beverage bottles and liquid board packaging (LBP). Some of the major achievements worth noting include the following:
- Landfill space saved: Petco recycled over 76,000 cubic metres of post-consumer packaging, which is equivalent to filling 2,324 shipping containers.
- LBP recycling surge: The organisation reported a more than 200% increase in LBP collection and recycling rates compared to 2023, showcasing Petco’s successful EPR scheme in action.
- PET recycling progress: Petco has grown PET bottle and jar recycling from 16% in 2005 to nearly 76% today, with 70% of member PET products now recycled.
Telly Chauke, Petco’s CEO, stated, “We aim to achieve similar results for LBP and continue scaling sustainable solutions to meet our members’ expectations.” Petco’s success lies in its partnership-based approach. By collaborating with waste pickers, buy-back centres, municipalities, and industry stakeholders, Petco fosters localised recycling solutions. Teams of liaison officers work on the ground to ensure the seamless flow of recyclable materials, addressing regional challenges.
In 2024 alone:
- Petco conducted over 200 on-site activations to engage with waste pickers and businesses, showcasing the value of LBP collection.
- Petco trained over 4,700 beneficiaries through workshops and business training, increasing awareness of the economic potential tied to recycling.
- Investments worth R70 million empowered small businesses, enabling them to purchase R470 million worth of recyclable packaging.
LBP recycling demonstrates Petco’s capacity for innovation. Recycled LBP, composed of 75% paperboard and 25% poly-aluminium, finds new life as school desks and low-cost construction materials. Petco’s work not only diverts waste from landfills but also contributes to empowering economically marginalised communities.
SMMEs, a key segment in the value chain, received extensive support, including equipment, mentorship, and training. “By empowering these small businesses, we simultaneously contribute to economic development and strengthen South Africa’s waste management system,” Chauke explained.
Petco’s vision
As a key player in South Africa’s recycling industry, Petco showcases a model of sustainability and growth. Teaming up with 59 municipalities nationwide in 2024, the organisation supported projects focused on separation-at-source and infrastructure development. By doing so, Petco ensured compliance with EPR legislation while reinforcing its members’ roles as stewards of sustainability.
This year, Petco has proven itself as more than a recycling organisation—it’s a leader in socio-economic development, innovation, and environmental stewardship. “Growth remains our driving force. We are determined to expand our technical abilities and maximise our impact on South Africa’s circular economy while keeping recyclable materials out of landfills,” said Chauke.
The tremendous strides made by Petco in 2024 underscore its vital role in the South Africa recycling industry. By exceeding recycling targets, implementing innovative systems, and supporting socio-economic growth, Petco exemplifies a flourishing partnership model and an unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Petco’s journey inspires member organisations, industries, and communities alike to actively contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous South Africa.
