Paper and Packaging producer responsibility organisation, Fibre Circle, is collaborating with the Stellenbosch Municipality and the Zithande Mzansi Schools Programme, to relaunch the Green Schools Recycling Initiative, renewing its commitment to promoting environmental sustainability through targeted education and infrastructure in schools.
The Zithande Mzansi Green Schools initiative aims to equip local educators with the tools and knowledge needed to instil a culture of environmental responsibility from an early age. This includes the distribution of colour-coded recycling bins, educational materials aligned with the national curriculum, and ongoing training for educators and learners alike.
“Education is at the heart of this programme,” said Edith Leeuta, CEO of Fibre Circle. “Through this initiative, we are preventing valuable materials such as paper from ending up in landfills, whilst nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious leaders.”
The original Green Schools Programme laid the foundation for recycling and sustainability education in local schools. Fibre Circle expanded on this model through a successful pilot project, providing three recycling bins and educational support to Webergedenk Primary in the Webers Valley just outside Stellenbosch. The results highlighted the programme’s potential to be scaled and replicated.
“The remarkable success we achieved at Webergedenk Primary School showed us what is truly possible when communities, schools, and municipalities work together, “she explains. “We have considered the learnings and successes of this initial pilot programme to develop the framework for the next phase of the initiative.”
The relaunched initiative will provide participating schools with the following support:
- Colour-coded recycling infrastructure
- Educational tools and materials to support the Zithande Mzansi Schools Programme
- Scheduled recyclable waste collection by the Stellenbosch Municipality
- Ongoing training sessions and workshops
- Programme monitoring and evaluation to ensure impact and accountability
With environmental degradation and landfill overflow posing significant threats across South Africa, the programme takes a proactive approach by positioning schools as powerful enablers and drivers of change. In addition to promoting greener habits, the initiative opens pathways to future careers in the circular economy, environmental sciences, and waste management.
“This is more than a just recycling programme,” Leeuta expresses. “It is a movement toward community empowerment, academic opportunity, and long-term environmental stewardship.”
The official launch event that took place at the Stellenbosch Town Hall on Thursday 29 May 2025 brought together learners, educators, municipal representatives, and community stakeholders to celebrate this collaborative step forward.
Fibre Circle and its partners welcome additional support, both logistical and educational, to ensure the programme’s successful adoption and longevity. Should your business wish to get involved, please contact info@fibercircle.co.za or call on (011) 593 3144
For more information on Fibre Circle, you can visit www.fibrecircle.co.za
About Fibre Circle
Fibre Circle is the producer responsibility organisation for the South African paper and paper packaging sector. Through strategic partnerships and education-focused initiatives, Fibre Circle works to drive a circular economy and reduce environmental impact across the country.