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Dr Godwell Nhamo
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Although comparing favourably to the European Union and other developed countries, the paper recycling industry in South Africa is still hampered by lack of specific targets.
In addition, local authorities were until recently not mandated to oversee waste recycling initiatives. The 2008 Waste Act came into effect on 1 July this year, requiring them to provide receptacles for recycling.
CSIR senior researcher Dr Godwell Nhamo found that South Africa compares favourably with other countries when it comes to the recycling of paper. In 2007, South Africa recycled 54.5% of its paper, just behind the US (56%) and the European Union (56%), but still lagging behind when compared to New Zealand (75%).
In 2007, about 50% of the total paper produced globally was from recovered paper.
According to Nhamo the benefits of recycled paper are substantial. It implies a reduction in the demand on forests, less total energy is consumed, less bleach used, less toxins released, saves water and reduces waste that otherwise must be land-filled or incinerated, contributing to the emission of greenhouse gases that lead to global warming and the changing climate.
However, in South Africa recycling is hampered as there are no legally binding targets set for waste streams, while globally it seems to be the accepted trend. In the US, for example, 35% of all packaging waste and 42% of all paper have to be recycled. In New Zealand 70% of all paper, 55% of all glass and 23% of all plastic have to be recycled. Several institutions and policies were put in place in these countries to oversee the regulation and implementation of waste paper and other waste stream recycling projects.
"As such, paper recycling remains a voluntary industry initiative closely aligned to market dictates," writes Nhamo in an article to be submitted for consideration in the South African Journal of Environmental Law and Policy.
Apart from the fact that the 2008 Waste Act requires that municipalities provide adequate storage facilities at source for recyclables, Nhamo makes the following recommendations that stakeholders in the paper recycling industry should take note of:
- Set targets for paper recycling
- Secure local government involvement by creating an enabling legislative and policy framework
- Streamline the roles and responsibilities of line departments such as the departments of Water and Environmental Affairs, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Tourism, Trade and Industry as well as Science and Technology
- Put in place appropriate recycling initiatives, such as landfill bans for specific waste streams and job creation through recycling grants programmes.
Enquiries: CSIR Communication
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