How Petco and ARO are transforming recycling in SA

A DRIVE to persuade more South Africans to incorporate recycling into their daily routines is benefiting schools and neighbourhoods.

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Helping drive these changes, is the country's longest-standing producer responsibility organisation, Petco, established in 2004 with the aim of ensuring post-consumer packaging is recycled. In 2024, Petco's work on behalf of its members - brand owners, retailers and packaging importers, resulted in more than 76000m³ of landfill space saved, which is equivalent to 30 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

One of Petco's unique partnerships to help drive recycling involves the African Reclaimers Organisation (ARO).

ARO's objectives include advocating for the recognition and inclusion of reclaimers as essential contributors to South Africa's recycling economy.

Together, the organisations celebrated two key projects in Johannesburg - Craighall Primary School and the Bordeaux South Residents' Association.