Clermont recycling centre gets boost
The recycling centre, which was started by New Germany eco-warrior Thozeka Letuka, is aimed at curbing illegal dumping. Letuka also encourages people to recycle while earning an income.
A RECYCLING centre, which was just bare bones in November, has been revamped after receiving generous funding from the Inkwazi Isu Project.
The project has sponsored the centre with a container, a bailing machine, office equipment and a stipend for the locals that will be employed.
The recycling centre in Freese Road, just outside Clermont, is a dream of New Germany resident Thozeka Letuka.
Related article: Recycle waste and earn an income
She started the centre through her environmental company, Big Start.
When it started last year in November, Letuka said with confidence that this was the start of something bigger and a step towards a clean environment.
“It has always been my dream to motivate people to keep their area clean while earning an income,” said the eco-warrior.
Also read: #WomensMonth: Thozeka’s more than a woman
Dr Emmanuel Sakado, Inkwazi Isu project manager, said that in collaboration with various stakeholders, their aim is to address waste-management infrastructure development in eThekwini through supporting material-recovery facilities.
“Inkwazi Isu is unique in its diverse and collaborative approach. Major industry players, civil society and local government have partnered to make the project a success. The Inkwazi Isu prides itself for being able to assist aspiring waste-prenuers in the city,” she said.
Sakado stated that two sites have been upgraded by the project, and they are fully operational, plus they have both created employment opportunities for 20 people.
“Big Start Training was one of the luckiest organisations to receive funding from the project. The organisation was recognised for its excellence in waste management and education.”
According to Sakado, the site is projected to produce 100 tons of plastic in a month, which contributes greatly to plastic diversion.
“As the project manager of Inkwazi Isu, and the steering committee member of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW), I am excited about the kick-off of the project because it will contribute to waste management, infrastructural development and job creation within the city, and it will make a global impact,” she said.
For more from the Highway Mail, follow us on Facebook or Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
