The eThekwini Municipality recently introduced practitioners from over 20 municipalities to its innovative approaches to waste management at a Solid Waste Management Master Class.

The three-day class, hosted by the Municipal Institute of Learning (MILE) and Durban Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit (DSW), was attended by 30 officials. The master class showcased the best practices within the DSW Unit and through informative presentations, expert facilitation and site visits.

Noloyiso Walingo an Environmental and Health Manager from Ugu District Municipality told MILE, “This type of engagement is great for information sharing as we learnt a lot coming together. We shared our challenges and our solutions. It is very important that MILE continues to offer this opportunity forum for all of us as municipalities. The areas that need to be explored are endless, we can always use the MILE Master Classes as a cost effective way of bringing municipalities together.”

Day 1

The first day of the master class focused on waste minimisation, education and recycling. Participants visited Birches Primary School, which prides itself on teaching the importance of sustainability and recycling.

Day 2

Delegates learnt first-hand from experts at the Marianhill Landfill site and engaged in a debate and dialogue session to share the lessons that they had learned.

Day 3

The final day summed up the major points and lessons learned during the master class and participants were able to indicate the support they required in terms of solid waste management. MILE has acknowledged these municipalities’ needs and will plan further engagements between them and the DSW.

View the presentations from the master class.