South Africa’s paper recycling rate has climbed to 63.3 percent, showing steady progress in how the country manages waste and protects the environment.
According to the latest industry data, around 1.2 million tonnes of paper and paper packaging were recovered in 2025. This marks an increase from 60 percent in 2024 and highlights the growing role of recycling in everyday life.
Behind these numbers is a wide network of people and systems working together. Paper mills, recycling companies, small businesses and informal waste pickers all play a part in keeping recyclable materials out of landfills.
Why this matters for the Bay
For Nelson Mandela Bay, recycling is more than just an environmental issue. It is also about job creation, cleaner communities and reducing pressure on already stretched landfill sites.
Waste pickers in the metro form a critical part of the recycling economy, often collecting and sorting materials that would otherwise end up as pollution. Their work not only supports their livelihoods but also contributes directly to the city’s sustainability efforts.
As the metro continues to face environmental challenges, including water and waste management pressures, improving recycling habits at a household level can make a real difference.
What you can recycle at home
Most households can contribute by separating basic recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, certain plastics, glass and cans.
Clean, dry and sorted waste is far more likely to be successfully recycled. Contaminated materials often end up in landfills, even if they were originally recyclable.
Small actions, big impact
Recycling may feel like a small act, but on a larger scale it adds up quickly. Every box, newspaper or paper bag that is recycled helps reduce the need for new raw materials, saving energy and water in the process.
For residents in Nelson Mandela Bay, the message is simple. Recycling is one of the easiest ways to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable city.
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