Initiative boosts environmental education in Mpumalanga and Free State
A new collaboration between Fibre Circle and the Good Work Foundation (GWF) is bringing sustainability education and recycling initiatives to rural communities in Mpumalanga and the Free State. This partnership aims to raise awareness about waste management and foster green economy opportunities among learners, teachers, and school staff.
In February 2025, Fibre Circle launched the initiative at GWF’s Hazyview Digital Learning Campus, donating 36 waste bins to encourage the separation of recyclable materials such as plastic, paper, tin, and glass. The collected waste will be recycled, and the rebates earned will incentivize cleaning and gardening staff, turning them into champions of the initiative.
Fostering a Culture of Environmental Awareness
GWF’s head of campus operations, Musa Mokoena, highlighted the importance of the initiative, especially given the proximity of many GWF campuses to the Kruger National Park.
“There is very little consistent environmental education at home or at school in our areas. We wanted a project that leaves a positive footprint while teaching learners and staff about responsible waste disposal,” Mokoena explained.
The project will be extended to 29 government primary schools and high schools in GWF’s network, integrating waste management lessons into school activities. Schools can use their recycling rebates for beautification projects and learner nutrition programs, reinforcing the economic value of sustainability.
Empowering Communities Through Recycling
GWF’s gardening staff have already embraced the program. Ally Hlatshwayo, a gardener at GWF’s Huntington Digital Learning Campus, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative:
“I wasn’t aware that we could recycle paper, glass, and plastic. Now, instead of dumping or burning waste, we will recycle it. This will create jobs and keep our campuses and communities clean and healthy.”
Fibre Circle’s Commitment to Sustainability
Fibre Circle, a producer responsibility organisation (PRO) for the paper and packaging industry, is committed to reducing waste in South Africa’s landfills.
Charmaine Maphosa, Fibre Circle’s community relations and education officer, described the collaboration with GWF as a “strategic and passion-driven alliance.”
“By providing recycling bins and promoting awareness, we are creating a chain reaction that will lead to even greater environmental impact. This initiative fosters future environmental ambassadors while demonstrating our commitment to sustainability,” Maphosa stated.
She emphasized the long-term benefits of the initiative, stating that sustainability is a lifestyle choice that must be embraced to ensure a better future for generations to come.
This project not only educates young learners about responsible waste management but also introduces communities to the economic opportunities in the green economy, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable South Africa.
