By Doreen Mokgolo
- Springs recyclers got safety gear from a mining company after asking their councillor for help.
- Township recyclers want government depots nearby to cut their high transport costs to sell materials.
Recyclers in Springs want the government to build recycling depots in townships so they can save on transport costs.
A mining company has given work tools to 30 recyclers and small farmers in Springs, Ekurhuleni. The donation came after local councillor Thulane Simelane asked for help in 2023.
The recyclers got two sets of work clothes, boots, safety glasses and gloves. The farmers received a water tank, seeds and gardening tools.
Recycler Nomusa Nkambule from Ekuthuleni Informal Settlement says they spend too much on transport to sell their materials.
“A big bag of bottles and cans can pay us R1,000 depending on the scale, but we then have to pay R450 for transport,” she said.
“My wish is for a state-owned recycling depot in each township where we would not be ripped off our commission. It is about time that the government starts seeing the industry as an important figure that contributes to the economy and job sector of this country.”
Nkambule started recycling four years ago after being jobless for many years. A neighbour showed her the work.
“A neighbour who had been recycling for years invited me to join them and since then my family has not gone to bed on an empty stomach,” she said.
“In our community women are at the forefront of recycling; we rely on the money to support our families and put our children through school.”
Most of the people who got the donations live in informal settlements where jobs are scarce, says Simelane.
“Many have resorted to recycling and lack working tools; they don’t have masks, protective shoes and hats to protect them from the scorching heat and reflective gear to be seen in the night,” he said.
“The donation will make their work easier and bearable.”
Pictured above: The recyclers.
Source: Supplied
