Pikitup, the waste management company of the City of Johannesburg, urges residents not to dispose of builders’ rubble or garden refuse in their 240-litre waste bins.
Heavy waste can damage the lifting mechanisms of compactor trucks, leading to costly repairs and service delays.
Pikitup spokesperson Muzi Mkhwanazi said the 240-litre bins are specifically designed for domestic waste, including non-recyclable household items.
Improper use, such as disposing of heavy materials, not only damages the trucks but also disrupts efficient waste collection.
A damaged compactor truck reduces the number of vehicles available for service, significantly affecting Pikitup’s ability to complete scheduled waste collection rounds.
“In line with the National Waste Management Act, domestic waste excludes hazardous materials from residential premises and is classified into three categories: recyclable, compostable, and non-recyclable or non-usable waste.
“Residents are advised to dispose of only non-recyclable, lightweight, and non-bulky waste in their bins to avoid damage to Pikitup’s vehicles and ensure uninterrupted waste collection,” he said.
Additionally, Pikitup encourages residents to participate in its separation-at-source programme by avoiding the disposal of recyclable materials in general waste bins.
Recyclables should be placed in separate containers for collection by either Pikitup or registered waste collectors.
This initiative helps reduce the volume of waste sent to landfill sites, which are nearing capacity in the City of Johannesburg.
