MetPac-SA expand partnership with Phoenix for the Planet to strengthen community recycling

SOUTH AFRICA – MetPac-SA, the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) for South Africa’s metal packaging industry, has strengthened its partnership with Phoenix for the Planet, a community-driven recycling initiative.

This collaboration builds on the success of the Trash4Treats project, spearheaded by [dot]Good, South Africa’s leading cause-marketing agency. The project incentivizes schools in underprivileged areas to collect and recycle metal packaging.

Phoenix for the Planet, founded in 2021, is committed to reducing environmental impact by promoting efficient waste management, recycling, and resource repurposing.

Initially appointed as the designated recycling partner for the Phoenix area in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), the initiative has since expanded its reach to enhance community-driven recycling efforts.

“This collaboration aims to support Phoenix for the Planet in its mission to collect recyclable materials from households, schools, and industries while fostering environmental awareness and reducing landfill waste,” said Kishan Singh, CEO of MetPac-SA.

Driving a zero-waste community

Phoenix for the Planet was established to create a zero-waste community. It has played a crucial role in promoting responsible recycling habits and reducing the carbon footprint of local residents.

The initiative mobilizes schools and community members to participate actively in environmental conservation efforts.

2022 the program collaborated with 24 schools, 1,000 households, 10 industries, and Durban University of Technology (DUT), collecting 51 tons of recyclable waste.

Introducing dedicated bins for waste segregation and 1-ton bags for compressed waste significantly improved collection efficiency. By 2023, recycling efforts grew to 62 tons; in 2024, they reached an impressive 93 tonnes.

Through the Trash4Treats initiative, students at participating schools receive rewards such as canned food and essentials when they collect 25 or more metal cans.

Additionally, schools benefit financially based on their recycling contributions, creating a sustainable and rewarding environmental and community development system.

Expanding reach and impact

The partnership with MetPac-SA and [dot]Good marks a significant milestone for Phoenix for the Planet.

Founding member Clive Govender emphasized the importance of scaling the initiative’s impact, “We are working towards getting 64 schools on board in the Phoenix area. Our goal is to increase public awareness about waste management.

“About 5% of the recyclables we collect from neighbourhoods is metal packaging. We aim to expand our reach and encourage more schools to join. Raising awareness among educators, students, and their families is key to changing waste management habits.

“MetPac-SA’s funding will provide us with much-needed resources to strengthen operations and community engagement.”

MetPac-SA CEO Kishan Singh echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the role of collaboration in fostering sustainability, “We are excited about this partnership with Phoenix for the Planet and look forward to making a meaningful impact in the community.

“MetPac-SA remains committed to promoting sustainable metal packaging solutions and supporting initiatives that drive positive societal change. Supporting SMEs like Phoenix for the Planet aligns perfectly with our mission of environmental stewardship.”

Creating jobs and strengthening community development

Beyond environmental benefits, Phoenix for the Planet has created employment opportunities for 10 individuals in the Phoenix area.

As the initiative grows, it has the potential to create further jobs, contribute to the local economy, and address environmental challenges.

The program extends beyond waste collection to provide educational outreach. Schools and community members receive guidance on responsible waste management, empowering them to become environmental champions.

Students actively participate in recycling activities, gaining a deeper understanding of their role in protecting the planet.

With ongoing support from MetPac-SA and strategic input from [dot]Good, Phoenix for the Planet is set to expand its reach and impact.

The initiative aims to increase school participation, enhance community engagement, and boost overall recycling rates, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

“The success of PROs like MetPac-SA depends on collective community participation and strategic partnerships,” Singh concluded.

“By working together, we can combat environmental contamination, reduce resource depletion, and improve the quality of life for local residents through responsible recycling. As we continue expanding our efforts, we have the potential to transform communities into zero-waste neighbourhoods, setting a benchmark for other regions to follow.”

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