Exhibiting at Propak Africa 2025

About Polyco PRO NPC

Polyco PRO NPC is a leading South African non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the recycling and responsible disposal of polyolefin plastics. As a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO), Polyco works in collaboration with industry stakeholders to enhance sustainable waste management and promote circular economy initiatives. The organization operates under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, ensuring manufacturers contribute to the end-of-life management of plastic packaging.

Core Business and Mission

Polyco PRO NPC focuses on developing and implementing sustainable plastic recycling programs across South Africa. The organization provides funding, infrastructure, and educational resources to drive behavior change and improve plastic waste collection and recycling rates. Their mission is to create a cleaner environment by recovering and recycling polyolefin plastics such as HDPE, LDPE, PP, and LLDPE.

Products and Services

1. Recycling Initiatives

• Packa-Ching®: A mobile recycling initiative incentivizing community participation by exchanging recyclable materials for monetary rewards. Since its inception, it has diverted over 11 million kg of plastic waste from landfills.
• Million+ Plastic Recycling Revolution: A national movement aimed at engaging over 1 million South Africans in recycling, with a goal of collecting and recycling over 20,000 tons of plastic waste annually.

2. Educational Programs

• Breaking Down Plastic(s) Series: An 8-part educational video series that provides consumers with critical information on different types of plastics, their recyclability, and proper disposal practices.
• Design for Recycling Guidelines: Comprehensive documentation aimed at manufacturers and product designers to improve recyclability and reduce waste at the source.

Financials and Impact

• Funding & Investment: Polyco has invested over ZAR 400 million in recycling projects since its inception, significantly boosting South Africa’s recycling infrastructure.
• Recycling Impact: Polyco’s initiatives have contributed to the recycling of over 500,000 tons of polyolefin plastics, preventing them from entering landfills and oceans.
• Job Creation: Through its various programs, the organization has supported over 5,000 waste collectors and small businesses, driving socio-economic benefits.

Shipment and Recycling Data

• Annual Polyolefin Plastic Recycling Volume: Over 80,000 tons processed per year.
• Export of Recycled Plastics: Polyco supports local recyclers in exporting reprocessed polyolefin plastics to global markets.
• Waste Diversion: More than 30% of South Africa’s plastic packaging waste is diverted from landfills due to Polyco’s efforts.

Target Market

Polyco PRO NPC primarily serves the following stakeholders:

• Plastic Packaging Producers: Ensuring compliance with EPR regulations and providing sustainable waste solutions.
• Waste Management and Recycling Businesses: Facilitating partnerships and investments in advanced recycling technologies.
• Government and Regulatory Bodies: Collaborating on national waste management policies and circular economy initiatives.
• Consumers and Communities: Driving awareness and participation in household and commercial recycling programs.

Certifications and Compliance

Polyco PRO NPC adheres to strict Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) compliance regulations in South Africa. The organization works closely with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) and is recognized for its best practices in sustainable waste management.

Customer Testimonials

"Packa-Ching® has transformed waste into a valuable resource for our community. The program has created new economic opportunities while keeping our streets clean." – Local Community Member

"Polyco’s funding and support have allowed us to scale our recycling operations, making a real impact in reducing plastic pollution." – Recycling Business Owner

Major Achievements

• 2023 Annual Recycling Milestone: Successfully collected and recycled over 100,000 tons of polyolefin plastics.
• National Expansion of Packa-Ching®: Now operational in more than 15 communities across South Africa.
• Recognition by Government Bodies: Acknowledged as a key contributor to the National Waste Management Strategy.

Polyco PRO NPC continues to lead the way in sustainable plastic waste management, driving innovation and environmental responsibility in South Africa’s circular economy.