WasteAid Joins World Environment Day Action in Mpumalanga to #BeatPlasticPollution

This World Environment Day, WasteAid teamed up with the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) and Thembisile Hani District Municipality to celebrate environmental action in South Africa.

Under the global theme #BeatPlasticPollution, the event called on communities to rethink plastic use and take action to refuse, reduce, reuse, and recycle. The day kicked off with a community clean-up in Delmas and a lively environmental awareness session that brought together waste reclaimers, government officials, traditional leaders, NGOs, and local residents.

Among the distinguished guests were DARDLEA MEC Ms. Nompumelelo Hlophe, the Acting Executive Mayor of Nkangala District, and the Executive Mayor of Victor Khanye Local Municipality.

Speaking to the crowd, MEC Hlophe gave a powerful call to action:

“No one will do it for us. We must do it ourselves. Let’s declare war on this enemy called plastic pollution.”

She reminded the community that tackling plastic waste starts at home — in our living spaces, schools, clinics, and public areas. She also praised the tireless efforts of Community-Based Organisations, NGOs, informal waste pickers, and the often-unsung heroes of the Zonda Insila Programme (ZIP).

WasteAid and local collectors were proud to receive certificates of appreciation for our partnership with government stakeholders and our commitment to improving waste management in Mpumalanga. We’re honoured by DARDLEA’s recognition and support.

As part of the day, WasteAid ran a hands-on plastics awareness demo — showing which plastics can be recycled and how community members can help reduce dumping and burning. By supporting informal sector waste workers, we can all help keep the environment clean and support local livelihoods.

Together, we can turn the tide on plastic pollution — one piece of waste at a time.