The Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Environment and Infrastructure Services in the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Jack Sekwaila, has welcomed the launch of Pikitup‘s new recycling sorting facility at the Robinson Deep Landfill Site, describing it as a significant step towards addressing the growing challenge of landfill airspace depletion.

Addressing stakeholders during the official launch, MMC Sekwaila emphasised that waste management remains one of the most pressing challenges facing cities globally, including Johannesburg.

“Our landfill sites continue to face increasing pressure, making it imperative for us to develop innovative and sustainable solutions that reduce the volume of waste disposed of at these facilities. This recycling sorting facility represents a significant step in that direction,” he said.

Sekwaila said the appointment of cooperatives to operate the facility would enhance the recovery, sorting and reintroduction of recyclable materials into the recycling value chain, preventing valuable resources from being lost through landfill disposal.

He further highlighted that the facility represents more than just an infrastructure investment.

“This sorting facility is not only an investment in infrastructure but also an investment in people. Recyclers working at the site now have access to proper amenities, including showers and ablution facilities, enabling them to work in a safer, cleaner and more dignified environment. This demonstrates our commitment to improving the working conditions of waste pickers and recognises the vital role they play in the city’s waste management system,” he said.

During the event, Pikitup also unveiled nine new compactor trucks, which are expected to strengthen waste collection operations and improve service delivery to residents across the city.

In addition, Polyco, a non-profit organisation that supports plastic collection and recycling in South Africa and a key stakeholder of Pikitup, pledged to provide machinery and equipment that will enhance the productivity and efficiency of cooperatives responsible for collecting and sorting recyclable materials at the site. Polyco Senior Manager Jacques Jelliman reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to the initiative, stating:

“We are going to capacitate the site to make it a fully fledged recycling hub.”

The launch of the recycling sorting facility forms part of the City’s broader efforts to promote sustainable waste management practices, reduce pressure on landfill sites, support the circular economy and create opportunities for community-based cooperatives in the waste management sector.