Make a difference during Clean-Up & Recycle SA Week 2025

Clean-Up & Recycle SA Week 2025 | National Recycling and Clean-Up Events

Clean-Up & Recycle SA Week 2025 is taking place from 15 to 20 September 2025. It offers the perfect opportunity for all South Africans to protect their environment through clean-up and recycling activities. This annual initiative, led by Plastics SA, aims to foster environmental accountability and recycling across communities, schools and businesses.

Plastics SA is the umbrella body representing the entire plastics industry and supported by packaging industry. It encourages all citizens to take pride in their environment by actively participating in clean-up and recycling activities – making a difference where they work, live and play.

Why it matters

September has become synonymous with ‘spring cleaning’ the environment, and this year promises to be no exception. Throughout the month, various clean-ups will take place across the country, uniting communities, schools, businesses and individuals in the shared goal of protecting our environment.

Douw Steyn, Sustainability Director at Plastics SA, says the week highlights the importance of responsible plastic and packaging use. It seeks to ensure that plastic and packaging products are reused and recycled after use, preventing them from polluting rivers, beaches or landscapes.

“Clean-Up & Recycle SA Week is more than just picking up litter; it’s about fostering a culture of accountability and respect for our environment,” says Steyn. “Plastics and packaging are valuable materials that should be recycled and kept in the circular economy. By working together to clean and recycle, we are preserving our natural resources and ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come.”

Highlights of the week

• National River Clean-Up Day – On 17 September 2025 volunteers across South Africa will clean rivers to combat water pollution and protect ecosystems.
• National Recycling Day South Africa – On 19 September 2025 citizens are encouraged to sort their recyclables and participate in recycling drives.
• International Coastal Clean-Up Day – On 20 September 2025, coastal areas and beaches are cleaned as part of this global environmental movement.

Plastics SA and its partners will sponsor thousands of bright yellow branded bags. These will be distributed to coordinators and volunteers around the country. The bags are used to collect and sort the litter gathered during the clean-ups.

Collaboration is key to success

While Plastics SA spearheads the initiative, various material streams (including paper, glass and metals) are also involved. This showcases how collaboration between industries and citizens is key to tackling pollution.

“We invite everyone to join us – whether it’s at your local beach, riverbank, park, or neighbourhood. Each bag of litter collected, and bottle or bag recycled, is a step towards a cleaner and more sustainable South Africa,” Steyn adds.

Schools, businesses, and communities are encouraged to organise their own clean-up events. Remember to Register Your Events Online, and share the successes of your clean-up events on social media to inspire others.

For more information on how to get involved in Clean-Up & Recycle SA Week 2025, visit www.cleanupandrecycle.co.za or www.plasticsinfo.co.za. Together, we can make a real difference – one clean-up at a time.