NutriDay's Tubs2Classrooms programme is an End Producer Responsibility initiative in South Africa that has brought the industry together to see an end-of-life solution for used yoghurt tubs and to produce a much-needed resource for the community.

The 7 x 7m structure sees one million used yoghurt tubs converted into upcycled bricks to produce a library and multipurpose room, according to the brand. The library will serve not only the school learners but also the surrounding community.

"Nageng Primary is recognised as one of the best recycling and environmental schools in Vosloorus. Their achievements in the environmental space have inspired other local schools to kick-start their own recycling and environmental programmes," says Leanne Kiezer, head of corporate affairs at Danone Southern Africa.

Kiezer adds, "This movement is powerful, as we believe that children are important agents of change, influencing good recycling habits in their families and communities. It is our honour to recognise and commend the efforts of Nageng Primary as the best-collecting school in NutriDay's Tubs2Classrooms project in 2022."

"While 99% of the packaging material that Danone Southern Africa uses is already reusable, recyclable, or compostable, we are committed to achieving 100% by 2025," says Kiezer.

"NutriDay's Tubs2Classrooms project aims to educate communities about the importance of recycling and stimulate collection. The project showcases that waste has value, teaching learners that by treating waste correctly, we can produce resources for communities in need," adds Kiezer.

Lefty Monobe, principal at Nageng Primary School, says, "As a previously disadvantaged and older school, we are always seeking ways to enable our learners with an effective and supportive learning environment. This includes growing a vegetable garden to feed our learners, and recycling at school to help protect nature."

"As a school that services children and families who are not able to pay schools fees, we appreciate partnerships that enable us to realise the school’s growth plan and further support the community," Monobe adds. "The library and multipurpose room that Danone is building for us could not have come at a better time."

Danone President of Asia, Africa and the Middle East Christian Stammkoetter, says, "We continue to see the legacy of our former CEO Antoine Riboud being realised when he stated that Danone’s corporate responsibility will not end at the factory gate but will also serve social progress. Seeing the potential of a tiny yoghurt tub to change the experience of how children learn is remarkable. I look forward to the campaign expanding its footprint, in which schools across the country can be built using upcycled yoghurt tubs; diverting plastic from landfill and changing the lives of South African children."

"Today we also officially launch NutriDay's Tubs2Classrooms collection project for 2023 — repurposing another million tubs this year," adds Kiezer.

In 2023, Danone will reach another 85 000 learners, working with 100 schools in Gauteng where all collected yoghurt tubs will be turned into a second learning centre.

"Aligned with Danone's Impact journey, NutriDay's Tubs2Classrooms project is an important step in our commitment to preserve nature and support people and communities to thrive," says Kiezer.

Kiezer concludes, "Danone would like to extend the opportunity for other organisations to be involved through the donation of books, games and other educational material to support children in their learning environment. Interested donors are requested to reach out via mediasouthafrica@danone.com.”

For more information, visit www.corporate.danone.co.za. You can also follow Danone NutriDay on Facebook or on Twitter.