 | Drakenstein Municipality celebrated for excellence in waste management
09 September 2024 | Press Releases |
9 September 2024
Drakenstein Municipality was recognised for its innovative waste management practices at the recent annual Municipal Waste Recognition Competition, which highlighted exceptional waste management practices among municipalities in the Western Cape.
The awards ceremony, hosted by the Western Cape Government's Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, took place last month. Saldanha Municipality claimed the top spot and Overstrand Municipality secured second place, with Drakenstein Municipality close on its heels in third place. There was a five-point difference between first and third places, confirming the competitive nature of the awards.
Drakenstein Municipality's efforts in waste site management, temporary disposal facilities, and effective service delivery to both informal and formal households were crucial factors in its recognition.
The Municipal Waste Recognition Competition wants to encourage municipalities to enhance their waste management strategies, promote sustainability, and foster cleaner communities.
Louis Pienaar, Executive Director: Engineering Services at Drakenstein Municipality, is elated about the recognition: “Municipalities play an important role in environmental stewardship. We are proud to be acknowledged for our commitment to manage, recycle and reduce waste.
“While we are honoured to receive this award, we recognise that waste management remains a significant challenge in Drakenstein, and we are committed to continuing tackling the issue."
Municipalities were assessed on various waste management criteria, including:
- Solid waste reduction projects: Evaluation of recycling initiatives, drop-off facilities for recyclable materials, and overall waste management practices.
- Designated waste management officer: The presence of a dedicated officer responsible for overseeing waste management efforts.
- Waste reporting compliance: Monthly reporting of solid waste collection, diversion and recycling statistics through the Western Cape Government's Integrated Pollutant and Waste Information System (iPWIS).
- Solid Waste Bylaw compliance: Adherence to the National Environmental Management: Waste Act (NEMWA) through established Solid Waste Bylaws.
- Organic solid waste diversion: Implementation of plans for diverting green waste and chipping to produce compost.
- Innovative waste management initiatives: Noteworthy projects included Drakenstein Municipality's Food 2050 pilot project in collaboration with Mediclinic Paarl and Food 2050, where food waste is converted into compost; as well as the tracking system installed in municipal refuse compactors to help track refuse movement and optimise collection routes.
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