Did you know that Glass is one of the world’s most universal and sustainable materials? This is primarily due to its unique ability to be endlessly recycled and change its shape many times. I am passionate about being more eco-friendly, with recycling at the forefront of my quest. If you want to do your bit for the environment, then it is vital to know more about Glass Recycling.
Glass Recycling In South Africa
“Glass” is a material with infinite possibilities. It is amazingly robust, making it not only viable as a building material but malleable enough to create beautiful works of art.
I am proud to say that South Africa is a forerunner in glass recycling and finding unique ways to reuse and be creative with this incredible resource. In fact, the glass recycling rate in SA has gone up to 41.1%.
The Glass Recycling Company (TGRC), is the official promoter of glass recycling in SA. Their core objective is to promote the recycling and reuse of this eco-friendly product. TGRC recently celebrated 11 years, of glass recycling success in South Africa, marking a decade of sustainable glass recycling and glass reuse, a practice vital for all packaging.
Glass Recycling
If you do not already recycle, I encourage you to start. Recycling is one of the easiest ways you can combat the strain we are putting on the Earth’s resources. Below are three ways you can help reduce the amount of waste glass in South Africa:
Recycle Glass
Did you know that every ton of glass recycled saves 1.2 tons of raw materials? Add to that the fact that making new glass from recycled glass uses far less energy than using raw materials. I mentioned glass recycling is one of the ways you can be more eco-friendly and environmentally conscious. Most municipalities offer a weekly pickup, if not locate a Glass Bank to drop off your recycling. Once collected, the recycled glass is returned to the manufacturers, cleaned and melted to make new products.
Return Glass
There is also the option of returning glass beverage bottles to your supermarket, liquor outlet or retailer once empty, for a refund. These bottles are then sent to the beverage company, to be sterilised and refilled ready to be reused several times.
Upcycle Glass
Upcycling glass is one of my favourite and most creative options. You can use your glass containers again and again. A few ideas are using wine bottles for vinegar or olive oil. I also love using wine bottles as decorative vases for a table centrepiece.
Here are a few tips from TGRC to help you with your glass recycling mission:
- Glass containers, bottles and jars, used for food and beverages can be recycled, in a glass bank.
- Be the change you want to see! Encourage your friends and family to start recycling. Instead of throwing glass away take the simple steps to set up recycling at home.
- Take returnable bottles back to your retailer, to be washed and sterilised by the manufacturer and then refilled and reused. These include large beer bottles, certain glass cold drink bottles, as well as many of the bottles used for spirits and liquor.
- In SA, it is not necessary to separate different coloured glass, into different banks or to wash glass before placing it into glass banks.
I hope this post has inspired you not only to recycle but also make glass your first choice when it comes to packaging and storage.
Contact Details:
Contact TGRC via telephone on 0861 2 45277 or 011 463 5644 or email [email protected]
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