Zithande Mzansi Green Schools launch

A collaboration between Fibre Circle and Stellenbosch Municipality, under the Zithande Mzansi Schools programme

1. Introduction

Fibre Circle, in collaboration with the Stellenbosch Municipality and the Zithande Mzansi Schools Programme, is pleased to present this proposal for the re-launch of the Green a Recycling Initiative. This renewed partnership aims to enhance environmental sustainability within Stellenbosch schools through the provision of recycling infrastructure, education, and long-term community involvement.

2. Background

Environmental degradation and increasing landfill waste present ongoing challenges in South Africa. Schools are uniquely positioned to serve as change agents by instilling sustainable behaviours in learners from an early age. The Green Schools Programme previously provided a framework for environmental education and recycling efforts. Fibre Circle leveraged this platform to pilot the Zithande Mzansi Schools Programme at Webergedenk Primary School. As part of the pilot, Fibre Circle donated three color-coded recycling bins and learning materials. The pilot’s success demonstrated the need to expand the initiative across all participating schools to ensure inclusivity, consistency, and maximum impact.

3. Objectives

The primary objectives of this collaboration are to:

• Provide schools with recycling infrastructure to support source separation of waste.
• Prevent recyclable materials, particularly paper, from being lost to landfills.
• Promote environmental awareness and sustainable habits among learners and school communities.
• Support schools through training, resources, and ongoing programme oversight.
• Foster academic and career pathways within the circular economy.

4. Scope of the programme

The programme will include:

• Distribution of colour-coded recycling bins to participating schools.
• Supply of educational materials aligned with the Zithande Mzansi Schools Programme.
• Scheduled collection of recyclable waste by the Municipality
• Ongoing training and knowledge-sharing sessions for educators and learners.
• Monitoring and evaluation of programme progress and outcomes.

5. Programme needs and support requirements

To ensure successful implementation and sustainability of the initiative, the following support is required:

• Infrastructure Support: Recycling bins, PPE, and plastic bags.
• Operational Support: Regular collection of recyclable materials.
• Educational Support: Training workshops, learning materials, and in-school awareness campaigns.
• Launch Event Logistics: Venue, transportation of learners, Catering of tea and lunch, refreshments, goodie bags items for learners and stakeholders, etc. 

6. Education impact and long-term vision

Education is central to this initiative. Through consistent training and support, we aim to empower young people with the knowledge and tools needed to adopt environmentally responsible behaviours. Beyond classroom impact, the initiative opens pathways for learners to explore careers in environmental science, waste management, and the broader circular economy. This programme is not only about recycling – it is about creating a culture of environmental stewardship and responsibility that will extend beyond school grounds into homes, communities, and future professions.

7. Conclusion

This proposal outlines a renewed and strengthened commitment to environmental sustainability through school-based recycling initiatives. With the support of the Stellenbosch Municipality and the Zithande Mzansi Schools Programme and our partners who attended the launch, SIG, FairCape, Pick n Pay, and DFFE, Fibre Circle is confident in the transformative potential of this collaboration.

We invite you to endorse and support this programme in driving long-term environmental change and community empowerment.

For further information, contact: 

Dumisani.Khumalo@fibrecircle.co.za or visit https://fibrecircle.co.za/about/