The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) Amajuba District Environmental Wing on 24- 25 November hosted the 2025 Amajuba District Waste Engagement at the Newcastle Farmers Hall. The two-day programme focused on strengthening waste management, promoting recycling, and advancing separation at source initiatives across municipalities within the district. The event brought together municipal representatives, waste management experts, recycling organisations, and key stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities within the waste value chain.

Sessions included waste minimisation strategies, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), tyre recycling, metal recycling, and support for waste pickers. Panel discussions provided a platform for municipalities to reflect on their progress and challenges in waste diversion and recycling initiatives.

Stakeholders such as Polyco, MetPac-SA, SNS, Cryochem, and Municipal Waste Managers contributed through presentations, equipment handovers, and dialogues aimed at improving land accessibility, enhancing recycling operations, and uplifting waste-picker communities. Overall the engagement emphasised collaboration, sustainability, and capacity building, reinforcing the theme “Your Waste, My Treasure” by turning waste into economic and environmental opportunities for the Amajuba District.