City encourages waste management companies to align with international best practices
In a dedicated effort to promote sustainable waste management practices, the City of Cape Town is calling on all waste management companies operating within its jurisdiction to apply for waste accreditation. The move comes in response to the growing global concern over environmental sustainability and the crucial need for responsible waste disposal.
While residential properties in Cape Town typically receive refuse collection services from the City, there exists a significant private waste management sector catering to various businesses and industries. The City is proactively administering an accreditation process, ensuring that these private entities comply with international best practices and local legislation.
During the accreditation process, companies receive support and guidance from the City of Cape Town to implement best practices, optimize waste management processes, and stay informed about the latest developments in the field.
Alderman Grant Twigg, Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, highlighted the importance of waste accreditation, stating, “Waste accreditation in the City of Cape Town serves as a mark of excellence, demonstrating a company’s adherence to stringent environmental regulations and commitment to sustainable waste management practices.”
Twigg encouraged residents and businesses utilizing private waste management services to check the accreditation status of their service providers. He emphasized the potential consequences of irresponsible waste disposal, asserting that it is the families and communities who ultimately bear the brunt.
Furthermore, Twigg noted that waste management companies stand to benefit significantly from obtaining accreditation. Besides enhancing their credibility and reputation, accredited companies gain eligibility to bid for municipal tenders, contributing to the overall improvement of waste management services in the city.
Accreditation Process Overview:
- Sign Up Online: Interested waste management companies can sign up for accreditation on the City of Cape Town’s website here.
- Checklist of Information: A checklist of required information for the application is available on the website.
- Application Review and Inspection: Upon submission, companies will be notified of the review process and the scheduled date for inspection.
- Timeline: The accreditation process takes between three to four months to complete, with each step meticulously followed.
- Cost: There is no cost associated with the registration process.
- Validity: Accreditation is valid for 24 months.
For additional assistance in completing waste management plans for accreditation applications, companies can contact the City of Cape Town at waste.accreditation@capetown.gov.za.
The City urges all stakeholders to actively participate in fostering a sustainable and responsible waste management environment, emphasizing the collective responsibility in safeguarding the well-being of communities and the environment.