Sappi says it takes a holistic approach to sustainability by integrating virgin fibre, recycled fibre and bagasse — a sugar-processing byproduct — into its paper-making process. This approach not only conserves resources like water and energy but also reduces landfill dependency, methane emissions and environmental degradation.

Sappi adds that its ReFibre division has been a cornerstone of its recycling efforts, sourcing pre- and post-consumer brown recovered paper to meet the quality standards of the Paper Manufacturing Association of South Africa (PAMSA) and international certifications like PEFC / FSC.

Beyond recycling, Sappi says that ReFibre is a beacon of hope and opportunity for communities, enabling SMEs to supply nearly 20% of Sappi's post-consumer paper needs, and in the process, providing livelihoods for more than two hundred people.

Empowering Recycling Heroes: Enterprise and Supplier Development

In 2018, Sappi's ReFibre began identifying and supporting SMEs to integrate them into the mainstream economy. Through initiatives like loaning baling machines and providing comprehensive business development support and a secured market, the programme has empowered 24 SMEs across South Africa, with Sappi's capital investment into the companies amounting to R14-million, to date, Sappi says.

These individual recycling companies now supply an average of 1 000 tons of post-consumer brown recovered paper annually to Sappi's Tugela and Ngodwana Mills. Their efforts make a tangible impact in their communities in terms of poverty alleviation, job creation and waste minimisation as they also collect and process other grades of recycled material like other recycled paper grades and various grades of plastic and glass, the organisation adds.

Further business support comes through development initiatives in co-operation with Sappi Enterprise and Development Department which enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of these SMEs. By equipping these businesses with skills, resources and opportunities, Sappi says it ensures their success and compliance with South African laws and policies as well as sustainability by offering a secured market for post-consumer brown recovered paper. 

"Integrating these SMEs into our operations has not only proven to be a successful model for securing the fibre we require but has also aligned seamlessly with our sustainability pillars — addressing the objectives of people, planet and prosperity," says Frikkie Ueckermann, Sappi Senior Procurement Manager of Sourcing. 

"Since 2016, Sappi has been a tremendous help to ADDX Trading. They've not only helped us grow as a business but also given us the chance to create jobs. When we first started working with them, we only had two permanent employees. Now we've grown to six permanent staff and two temporary workers, and we even support several informal waste collectors. It's not just financially that we have excelled either — Sappi's taught us so much about recycling and the environment, and we're better for it in every way," says ADDX owner, Phumla Gamede. 

Gamede's words are echoed by Benjamin Jack Magongo from Africa Green-Earth Projects. Magongo says, "Sappi, your guidance and support have been the backbone of my success. From uplifting my rural waste reduction programme to teaching me vital skills in waste management and recycling, you've empowered me to grow and thrive. With your mentorship, I've built new opportunities, won awards and connected with invaluable networks. Today, every achievement I hold is a testament to the unwavering support and wisdom you've shared. Thank you for helping me turn my dreams into reality."

Sappi concludes that the people and SMEs involved in its recycling initiatives exemplify this year's '#RecyclingHeroes' theme, proving that recycling is not just about waste management — it is about shaping a greener, more equitable world and creating a better future for all.

For more information, visit www.sappi.com. You can also follow Sappi Southern Africa on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on X. 

*Image courtesy of contributor