This event highlighted Tetra Pak's commitment to fostering a circular economy through strategic partnerships and sustainable practices, says the company. 

Tetra Pak says that the tour provided attendees with a comprehensive look at Tetra Pak's collaboration with key partners including Gayatri Paper Mill, Mpact Recycling and Infinite Industries.

Tetra Pak's Sustainability Manager for Southern Africa, Masale Manoko, says these partnerships are pivotal in reducing food packaging waste and enhancing recycling infrastructure within the region. Attendees witnessed firsthand the lifecycle of a carton and how it integrates into broader circular economy initiatives.

Creating Opportunities for the Community

Manoko says that engagement with the local communities extends beyond environmental efforts  — it includes economic empowerment. Through partnerships with local recyclers and businesses, Tetra Pak contributes to job creation and supports the growth of the local economy.

"The company's initiatives within the waste management sector offer accessible opportunities for community members, such as waste collection, which allows individuals to earn an income by contributing recyclables to buy-back centres and Mpact branches," says Manoko.

Education also plays a central role in Tetra Pak's community outreach. The 'Recycle Carton' campaign currently running across 320 schools, exemplifies the company's dedication to raising awareness about recycling and its benefits for the environment, says the company.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Tetra Pak says that its focus on sustainability encompasses all levels of its operations. The company collaborates closely with local recyclers to improve recycling efficiency and support the development of essential recycling infrastructure. 

Moreover, the company says that it remains committed to using renewable energy sources, reducing energy consumption and minimising waste within its manufacturing processes, including its Pinetown factory which received a R500-million upgrade in the first quarter of the year.

The tour featured interactions with local waste pickers whose contributions to the recycling ecosystem have transformed their lives. These individuals, often overlooked, are essential to the recycling chain, gaining skills, financial stability and pride in their role in supporting South Africa's green economy, says the company. 

"Through collaborations with Mpact and Gayatri Mills, we are demonstrating that recycling is about more than reducing waste — it's about nurturing a sustainable future where people and the planet can thrive together," concludes Manoko.

For more information, visit www.tetrapak.com. You can also follow Tetra Pak® on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor