Sir Lowry’s Pass waste initiative a winner

A groundbreaking local initiative, Waste2Opportunity, is proving to be a powerful force for change as it tackles poverty and pollution, creating jobs and hope for the community of Sir Lowry’s Pass Village.

Founded by lifelong friends Danzel McDonald and Lionel Botha last year, the social enterprise operates from a community that grapples with high unemployment and environmental degradation.

The co-founders, both passionate about the environment and their home community, were motivated to act by the sight of waste clogging the Sir Lowry’s Pass River and the ongoing challenges of crime and drugs.

“Sadly, as long as there are humans, there will be waste,” said Botha, who is also a person with disabilities, highlighting the venture’s deeply inclusive vision. “But we believe this can be an opportunity.”

Since launching in November 2024, Waste2Opportunity has grown rapidly from sorting metal from the back of Botha’s house to a thriving operation that tackles plastics and e-waste, materials previously ignored by local recyclers.

The numbers speak of their immense social impact. The enterprise has so far collected total waste of more than 207 000 kg and paid out more than R450 000 to collectors. They’ve also employed 11 staff (including five former substance addicts) and are working with 180 paid community collectors, 90% of whom were unemployed before joining.

“We wanted people to stop waiting for handouts and instead build something for themselves, a route away from crime and drugs,” Botha explained.

The initiative has already seen profound results, with waste collectors able to kick addiction and provide for their families.

Waste2Opportunity has secured contracts with eight local entities, including farms, schools and businesses, all without external funding.

Now, the enterprise is seeking R175 000 to acquire essential infrastructure and accelerate its growth. The funds would be used to acquire a 1-ton second-hand pick-up truck (R70 000); health, safety, and security equipment (R35 000); and facility upgrades and working capital (R70 000).

The goal is to triple their business, allowing them to recycle over 15 tons of waste a week by next year. This expansion will enable them to process larger volumes, pay better prices to vulnerable collectors, and create more opportunities, especially for people with disabilities and single mothers.

The founders invite the wider community and potential social investors to support their journey toward the “social and environmental transformation of Sir Lowry’s Pass Village and surrounding areas”.

 To support the initiative, visit https://backabuddy.co.za/campaign/waste2opportunity-sa-recycling-opportunities.