South Africa considering stronger EPR enforcement as plastics pact targets 70% recycling rate by 2030

SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has assessed whether stronger regulation and enforcement are needed under the EPR framework, as the SA Plastics Pact 2030 Targets include 70% effective recycling.

The Pact’s targets also include 100% reusable, recyclable or compostable plastic packaging and 30% average recycled content across all plastic packaging. 

Speaking at the launch of the SA Plastics Pact 2030 Targets in Cape Town, Minister Willie Aucamp stated that the department would need to evaluate the role of regulation and enforcement in taking forward efforts to reduce plastic pollution. 

He noted that in the department’s experience, the Green Scorpions have an important role to play in targeting free riders and those refusing to comply with extended producer schemes.

The EPR framework applies to plastic packaging placed on the South African market, including packaging associated with imported goods.

Free Riders and Non-Compliance

Aucamp stated that problematic plastic products would threaten the reputation and the future of all plastic products if they were not addressed, adding that regulatory instruments would be needed to ensure greater compliance in removing problematic plastics from the ecosystem and to ensure that those who have refused to join the Plastics Pact also comply with the systematic changes being implemented. 

The “free rider” problem occurs when non-compliant producers benefit from the recycling infrastructure funded by compliant producers without contributing to its cost. 

The Green Scorpions, South Africa’s environmental enforcement unit, has the authority to inspect facilities, issue compliance notices, and refer cases for prosecution.

Deposit Return Schemes Under Consideration

Government was also working with industry stakeholders to explore deposit return schemes to improve collection rates, increase material recovery, and strengthen the effectiveness of the EPR framework. 

Deposit return schemes add a small refundable fee to beverage containers, which is repaid when the empty container is returned. 

DRS has achieved recycling rates exceeding 90% for covered containers in countries such as Germany and Norway. 

South Africa currently has no national DRS, though some voluntary initiatives exist. 

The government’s consideration of DRS signals that voluntary measures may not be sufficient to meet the 70% recycling target.

The SA Plastics Pact 2030 Targets

The 70% effective recycling target is significantly higher than current rates. South Africa has a well-developed packaging recycling industry, with PET bottle recycling rates around 60%, but other plastic categories lag. 

The 30% recycled content target applies across all plastic packaging, not just bottles, requiring converters to incorporate PCR into films, tubes, closures, and rigid containers. Meeting these targets will require both increased collection and improved sorting infrastructure.

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