Glass is a wonderful material. Not only does it keep our favourite beverages fresh and our special recipes sealed, but it's also 100% recyclable. 

Every glass bottle or jar you use over the holidays can be recycled into something new without losing quality. This festive season, as we pop open the wine, champagne and cold drinks, let's remember that our empty glass bottles can have another life — if we recycle them.

The Glass Recycling Company (TGRC) wants to help all South Africans make the most of this time of year by reducing waste and encouraging everyone to make glass recycling part of their celebrations. Recycling glass isn't just about keeping waste out of our landfills; it's about protecting our beautiful country for future generations. 

How to Recycle Your Glass This Festive Season

Recycling glass in South Africa is easy. Simply rinse and collect your used glass bottles and jars. Once you've got your collection ready, drop them off at your nearest glass bank. With over 4 000 glass banks spread across Mzansi, you're never too far from one. These collection points can be found at many malls, schools and community centres, making it convenient to recycle while doing your holiday shopping or visiting friends.

Individuals can find their nearest glass bank here. 

Fun Ways to Make Glass Recycling Part of Your Holiday Traditions

If you're wondering how to make glass recycling a fun and festive activity, we've got a few ideas up our sleeves:

1. Glass Bank Drop-Off With Holiday Shopping

When you're off for some last-minute gift shopping, turn the trip into a glass bank drop-off too. Pack your empty bottles in a bag and swing by the glass bank on your way. Make it a fun family activity, with everyone pitching in to make a difference.

2. Recycling with Kids — Pester Power for the Win

Get the little ones involved. You'd be surprised at how much kids love the idea of throwing bottles (responsibly) into a big container. Let's be honest, kids love a good project, and recycling is no exception. 

Show them how to rinse out jars and bottles, and let them help with sorting. Use their "pester power" to keep the adults in check — kids can be amazing at reminding us to do the right thing.

3. Reuse First, Then Recycle

Upcycling an old jar into a glittering candle holder is lovely, but remember recycling. Use what you can for crafts, but when bottles and jars pile up, make sure they find their way to the glass bank for a sustainable end.

The festive season is about giving, and what better gift to give than a greener future? 

Recycling glass helps to reduce landfill waste, conserves natural resources and saves energy. Recycled glass is used to make new glass bottles and jars, meaning fewer raw materials need to be dug up from the earth. When you recycle glass, you're part of a positive cycle that contributes to a healthier environment.

Let's Raise a Glass to the Planet

This festive season let's make a pact to raise a glass not just to friends and family, but to the environment too. By making glass recycling part of our celebrations, we can ensure that our holiday cheers are not only joyful but also kind to the planet.

For more information, visit www.tgrc.co.za. You can also follow TGRC on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on X. 

*Image courtesy of contributor