THE EPR Waste Association of South Africa (eWASA) has announced its strategic partnership with the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA). WESSA is dedicated to advocating for sustainable solutions, conservation, championing policy initiatives, and promoting environmental awareness that leads to a healthier planet.
At the core of this partnership lies a shared commitment to mitigating the environmental impact of waste and promoting sustainable practices within communities. eWASA, renowned for its championing responsible waste management practices across the Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE), Lighting, and Paper and Packaging sectors, recognises the potential to effect lasting change through education and awareness. eWASA will support and assist WESSA in the implementation of comprehensive environmental education initiatives that target learners, teachers, and communities through its Eco-Schools Programme across ten schools in the Western Cape and ten schools in Gauteng.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to ushering in a future where responsible waste management and circular economy principles thrive,” states Helena Atkinson, CEO of WESSA. “We firmly believe that empowering our youth with environmental knowledge and instilling a deep-rooted ethos of sustainability is pivotal to achieving this vision.”
Cindy-Lee Cloete, Head of Programmes and Projects at WESSA, said, “This initiative will lay the groundwork for comprehensive environmental education, fostering a profound understanding of the importance of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. We are proud to be associated with eWASA in taking this project to our communities.”
One of the primary objectives of this project is to engage schools actively, as well as local small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) operating within the recycling sector, with a specific focus on the regions of Cape Town and Gauteng. This endeavour aims to establish robust collaborations and provide support for waste management initiatives and recycling depots.
“By combining the expertise of eWASA and WESSA, we embark on a journey towards a more environmentally aware and resilient South Africa,” comments Keith Anderson, CEO of eWASA. “Our collective efforts will serve as a catalyst for meaningful change, enriching the lives of individuals, schools, and communities alike. “This alliance not only underscores the influence of strategic partnerships in effecting change but reinforces South Africa’s commitment to global sustainability objectives. Through eWASA’s visionary approach, coupled with the expertise of WESSA, the nation is poised to make tangible strides in curbing waste, bolstering circular economy practices, and ensuring a greener tomorrow.”
The eWASA and WESSA Waste Management project began on 01 August 2023 and will end December 2027.
