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Three Eastern Cape schools have emerged as leaders in sustainability and environmental action at this year’s Schools Recycling Awards, proudly hosted by DNF Waste & Environmental Services, in partnership with Polyco and the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA).
The event, held on 23 May during the IWMSA Waste 360 Conference at the East London ICC, celebrated the remarkable achievements of schools that are turning recycling into a shared community mission.
Leading the 2025 rankings, Lilyfontein School (Brakfontein) claimed 1st place, collecting a total of 4,599.7 kg of recyclables. Greenpoint High School (Buffalo Flats) secured 2nd place with 4,460.3 kg, followed by Buffalo Flats Primary School (Buffalo Flats) in 3rd, with 3,673.6 kg (see pictures here). These schools demonstrated exceptional commitment not only by engaging learners but by involving parents and surrounding communities in their efforts to reduce landfill waste.
“These learners are the real changemakers,” said Deidre Nxumalo-Freeman, who leads the programme at DNF Waste & Environmental Services. “Their schools have become collection hubs, education centres, and examples of how youth-led initiatives can inspire whole communities.”
Since its inception in 2017, the School Recycling Programme has been an effective platform to educate young South Africans about the environmental and economic value of recycling.
DNF Waste & Environmental Services has played a key role in driving the initiative, contributing expertise in youth engagement and environmental management to support the growth of community recycling programmes. Its partnership with Polyco has expanded these efforts through practical support, including the provision of educational materials, recycling bins, infrastructure, training, and mentorship. This collaboration has contributed to improved recycling rates and supported schools in playing a more active role in their communities.
“Polyco is honoured to celebrate these schools and their learners,” said Patricia Pillay, Polyco CEO. “Their achievements show what’s possible when education, action and partnership come together. These young people are not only learning the value of environmental responsibility – they are practicing it, leading it, and inspiring those around them to do the same.”
Participating schools benefit from consistent support, including a dedicated WhatsApp network that allows them to schedule collections, exchange ideas, and stay engaged throughout the year. To date, the programme has reached over 50 schools and is currently active in 28 – with plans to expand to 100 over the next three years.
This year’s top-performing schools were awarded Shoprite vouchers, cash prizes sponsored by Leaderpak, and valuable infrastructure such as ECO tanks, bin stations, and recycling bag stands. All participating schools were recognised for their contributions, reinforcing the inclusive and motivational spirit that underpins the initiative.
With recycling volumes having more than doubled over the last year, the programme’s momentum is strong. Learners are now visiting recycling depots, deepening their understanding of waste systems, and becoming champions of sustainability. It is this kind of grassroots impact that DNF and Polyco aim to grow – and they are calling on like-minded partners to join them.
“It starts with one school, one class, one community,” added Nxumalo-Freeman. “These learners are not just recycling – they are reshaping behaviours, challenging norms, and building futures. Their hard work deserves to be celebrated, and their journey reminds us that sustainability starts with the empowered youth of today.”
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Mfanekiso Ngqondweni
pondolandtimes.co.za
