The “chasing arrows” symbol we see on plastic containers and products does not necessarily mean the product is recyclable. Most products made from the numbers 1-6 have commercial recycling solutions. However, number 7 is a different story.
Despite all the efforts being made to clean the ocean, prevent plastic incineration and prevent litter in landfalls and ecosystems, there has been no recycling program available to deal with the mass of plastic that is recovered. In South Africa alone, over 95 million tons of plastic waste is produced every year.
Flexible film packaging stamped with a #7 is often made up of layers of different types of polymer.
This type of multi layer packaging was specifically developed to extend the shelf-life of products.
However, there is currently no viable replacement or commercial recycling solution for #7 packaging.
Our Solving 7 mission and purpose is to facilitate the collection of #7 Multi Layer Flexible Film Packaging, and process this into sustainable end-use products for under-resourced communities across Africa.
Across South Africa, 95 million tons of waste is disposed of annually.
South Africa has yet to implement a national separation at source programme.
An estimated 90,000 pickers earn a livelihood from the recovery of recyclables from waste.
Waste Minimisation; Effective & Sustainable Waste Services; and Compliance, Enforcement & Awareness
Need to reduce the rate of plastic waste load into the environment and, also to address existing pollution
In general recycling is the preferred waste management practice, especially in circular economy format.
Plastic has lowest rate of recycling at 43%, associated with significant environment impacts.
A lack of end markets for certain recyclables, as well as a limited number of processors are a major obstacle for separation at source
Scope for different models and tools to be developed to engage the informal waste sector.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) will involve producers taking physical and/or financial responsibility for priority products post consumption.
Objective of the EPR schemes is to prevent targeted products and materials from being disposed off as waste, through increasing Re-use, Recycling & Recovery rates.
Ensure atleast 40% of waste diverted from landfill within 5 years; 55% within 10 years; and at least 70% within 15 years, leading to Zero-Waste going to landfill.
Waste Reduction & Recycling targets to be set in Industry Waste Management Plans in priority industries, of which plastics is a main one.
Keep a finger on the Solving7 pulse with our monthly newsletter.
How can you help?