Why South Africa’s circular economy needs more women
Every August, Women’s Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate the women shaping a stronger South Africa. It is also a reminder that some of the country’s greatest opportunities for economic participation and entrepreneurship lie in sectors that are often overlooked, including the circular economy. Across South Africa’s glass recycling value chain, women are building businesses, earning livelihoods and helping create a more sustainable future.
Women collect recyclable glass, operate buy-back centres, work in manufacturing, lead businesses and help ensure glass stays in circulation instead of ending up in landfill.
The impact of glass recycling extends well beyond environmental sustainability. It supports livelihoods, strengthens local businesses and contributes to a thriving circular economy. Behind every bottle recycled is a value chain that creates environmental, social and economic benefits for communities across South Africa.
“Every bottle collected supports a much bigger network of collectors, buy-back centres, transporters, recyclers and manufacturers. Women are contributing across this value chain every day and they are helping build a stronger recycling industry,” says Shabeer Jhetam, CEO of The Glass Recycling Company (TGRC).
For Jhetam, recognising women’s contribution must go hand in hand with creating more opportunities for them to succeed.
“At TGRC, we believe a stronger circular economy is one where more women can participate, prosper and lead. That’s why we work alongside partners across the value chain to strengthen South Africa’s glass recycling network. That includes supporting waste pickers, strengthening buy-back centres, expanding access to glass recycling banks and investing in initiatives that make recycling more accessible. As the recycling network continues to grow, it creates more opportunities for women to earn an income, build businesses and strengthen their economic independence.”
“Women already contribute across every part of the glass recycling value chain, from collection and processing to manufacturing and leadership. As the industry grows, we want to see even more women entering the recycling economy as entrepreneurs, business owners and industry leaders. Their success will help build a stronger, more inclusive circular economy for everyone.”
Women’s Month is an opportunity to celebrate the women already shaping South Africa’s circular economy while recognising that unlocking even greater participation will strengthen the industry for everyone. By investing in infrastructure, supporting entrepreneurs and making glass recycling more accessible, TGRC is helping create an environment where more women can build sustainable livelihoods, grow successful businesses and contribute to a greener, more resilient South Africa.
