Government, industry and civil society are strengthening collaboration to reduce plastic pollution, accelerate recycling efforts and build a circular economy that benefits people and planet.
South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling plastic pollution through stronger partnerships, policy interventions and industry-led initiatives aimed at reducing waste and increasing recycling rates.
Speaking at the launch of the SA Plastics Pact 2030 Targets, government highlighted the growing environmental challenges associated with plastic waste while recognising the important role plastic continues to play in modern society.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said initiatives such as the SA Plastics Pact are critical in creating a shared vision for a future where plastic materials are valued, reused and kept within the economy for as long as possible.
South Africa has been a partner in the Plastics Pact since its launch in 2020 and views the initiative as an important mechanism for driving collaboration between government, business, academia and civil society.
Several milestones have already been achieved through these partnerships. The implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations has encouraged producers to invest in collection and recycling infrastructure while improving conditions for waste reclaimers who play a vital role in the recycling economy.
Government is also working with industry stakeholders to explore deposit return schemes that could increase collection rates and improve material recovery across the country.
Recent amendments to regulations governing plastic carrier bags and flat bags have introduced recycled content targets, creating additional demand for recycled materials and stimulating investment in the recycling value chain.
Support from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition through initiatives such as the Industrial Policy Action Plan and the Plastics Sector Master Plan is helping drive innovation, investment and growth in South Africa’s recycling sector.
South Africa is also actively participating in international efforts to combat plastic pollution through platforms such as the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment and the United Nations Environment Assembly, while contributing to negotiations around a Global Treaty to End Plastic Pollution.
Looking ahead, the SA Plastics Pact 2030 Targets signal a renewed commitment to balancing economic growth, environmental sustainability and social inclusion. Stakeholders acknowledged that while voluntary commitments have delivered important progress, stronger regulatory enforcement may be required to ensure greater compliance and eliminate problematic plastics from the economy.
The launch of the 2030 targets represents a collective commitment to accelerating the transition towards a circular plastics economy and ensuring that future generations inherit a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
