Waste turned into lights
Solar Pack Project aims to make life easier for those in need
“All we need is for individuals and companies to donate their electronic waste and we will be able to fund this project,” said Rudi du Plooy.
The former councillor and his partner, Madelein Afrika have started a Solar Pack Project to help people in need. “We are aiming to donate 300 000 solar packs to people – especially children – living in informal settlements as well as those in difficult circumstances because of poverty. These children have to do their homework and study by candlelight, which is not only strenuous on their eyes, but also a fire hazard,” Rudi said.The solar pack consists of a solar panel, torch with two different settings, two lights with independent on/ off switches, cellphone charger, MP3 player and a radio.
“The old and redundant electronic appliances donated to our company, R&M Electronic Recyclers, will be tested to determine which ones are viable to be repaired and which ones are not.
Components from the items not fit to be repaired will be separated and sold to recycling companies. The money from these sales will be used to buy the solar packs,” he said.
According to Rudi, your contribution of e-waste will ensure the following: – A greener environment– Creating skilled and unskilled jobs– Affordable repairs to IT equipment for non-governmental organisations, lower-income or unemployed people– Companies that donate will receive a green certificate– Money will be saved on transport costs, as they do collections at no cost.
He added that the programme will also create jobs for the youth by training them to repair computers, about software and electronic waste, as well as offering assistance to start their own businesses. “We will not be handing out the solar packs one by one, but we will identify an area and hand them out at the same time. The handover will be done during a ceremony that will be attended by those who donated as well,” he said.Should you require more information on this initiative, or have some items to donate, contact Rudi on 072 147 4735 or Madelein on 081 241 4167.
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