South Africa Launches Harbour-Based Net Recycling Facility to Support Global Plastic Treaty Goals

What's Happening?

South Africa has launched its first harbour-based net recycling facility at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. The initiative, led by Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Minister Dr. Dion George, aims to process end-of-life fishing nets into high-value raw materials for reuse in plastic manufacturing. The facility, housed in a converted shipping container, can shred, wash, dry, and densify up to 100 kilograms of used nets per hour. This project is a collaboration between OCEAN Action Network, Ocean Plastic Technologies, and the South African Deep-Sea Trawling Industry Association, with funding from the Marine Stewardship Council’s Ocean Stewardship Fund. The V&A Waterfront donated space for the facility, which supports South Africa’s commitments under the National Environmental Management: Waste Act and aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.

Why It's Important?

The launch of this recycling facility is significant as it complements the ambitions of the emerging Global Plastic Treaty and reflects South Africa’s leadership within the G20 Presidency. By transforming discarded fishing gear into clean plastic flakes, the facility prevents waste from reaching landfills or the ocean, reduces the risk of ghost fishing gear, and creates new economic opportunities. This initiative not only protects marine ecosystems but also supports South Africa’s fishing communities. It serves as a model that can be replicated in other harbours across the country and continent, showcasing the potential for industry and innovators to work together to create sustainable solutions.

What's Next?

With the recycling pod now fully operational, the next step is to scale the model. Ocean Plastic Technologies plans to deploy additional containers to other harbours, making the recycling solution easily replicable. This expansion aims to further mitigate the impacts of ghost gear and inspire wider adoption of innovative, technology-based recycling solutions. The project also seeks to raise awareness about the importance of recycling among residents and visitors to the V&A Waterfront, fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Beyond the Headlines

This initiative highlights the power of partnership and innovation in driving real change. By turning waste into opportunity, the project demonstrates how collaboration across government, business, and civil society can lead to significant environmental and economic benefits. It underscores the importance of building resilience in the blue economy, ensuring that economic activity supports environmental protection and sustainability.