Africa’s first PET bottle-to-bottle recycling equipment was on display at the site thanks to a partnership between Petco and Extrupet. With operations set to begin in 2025, the R300 million (US$15.8 million) facility will increase the Western Cape’s capacity to produce 15,000 tons of food-grade recycled PET annually.
Plastics PCR Currently, 64% of PET bottles in South Africa are gathered for recycling, according to Chandru Wadhwani, joint managing director of Extrupet. With expanded capacity to handle plastic garbage, the nation will be able to maintain its leadership position in the circular economy. Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts emphasized how the facility helps stabilize markets for garbage pickers and small businesses, increase collection and recycling rates, and stimulate supply and demand for PET materials.
According to Cheri Scholtz, CEO of Petco, the increased capacity closes the PET loop by encouraging a circular economy in which bottles are recycled again. This achievement is in line with the topic of the ISWA conference, “Waste to Wealth: Solutions for a Sustainable Future,” which highlights South Africa’s dedication to enhanced producer responsibility laws and sustainable development.
Polymer PCR Building a sustainable value chain by striking a balance between collecting and recycling capacity and boosting market demand is essential for success, according to Scholtz. With Petco’s help, recyclers like Extrupet may raise the price at which they buy recyclable packaging, invest in infrastructure, and provide garbage pickers with more opportunities to make money. Effective rules and enforcement are ensured by solid partnerships with the government.
