Celebrating sustainability champions in KwaZulu-Natal. First-Time Entrants Triumph at the KZN Waste Management Awards 2024 Frey’s Food Brands were awarded as the top entrant in the Large Manufacturing category. The award was presented by Mark Williams Wynn, far left, and Quintoin Rutherford, far right, to Naveen Rajoo and Carmen Haripursad. Pictures: SUPPLIED

The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Waste Management Awards celebrated the province’s leading sustainable businesses at a gala dinner held last week at the Mount Edgecombe Country Club, north of Durban. Attendees were entertained and inspired by Guinness World Record holder Quinton Rutherford, who shared his passion for environmental stewardship.

Hosted biennially by the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA) KZN branch, the awards spotlight organisations excelling in responsible and effective waste management.

Gareth Goosen, IWMSA KZN Chairperson, hailed 2024 as “the year of the first entrant”. He commended companies that demonstrated resilience and innovation following the 2021 civil unrest, leveraging eco-friendly practices to drive sustainability.

KZN generates 9.9% of South Africa’s total general waste, contributing significantly to the over 42 million cubic metres produced nationally each year. The region, along with Mpumalanga, is also a major source of hazardous waste due to its mining and fertiliser industries. Although the province’s average waste generation of 0.5 kg per person per day is below the national average, it surpasses figures seen in less affluent nations.

“Waste from households, commerce, and industry is rising across South Africa, exceeding 20 million tonnes annually due to population growth and economic expansion,” said Mr Goosen. “Recognising and celebrating organisations that adopt best environmental practices is crucial. Through science, technology, and innovative strategies, these businesses achieve cost-effective waste management while safeguarding the environment.”

The awards also highlighted the tangible benefits of responsible waste management, including reduced waste volumes, improved efficiency, lower costs, and enhanced profit margins. Past winners have credited their participation with fostering innovation and long-term sustainability gains.

Keynote speaker, Mr Rutherford, captivated the audience with his account of securing two Guinness World Records in surfski and his enduring commitment to protecting the marine ecosystems. His message encouraged attendees to continue championing environmental sustainability for current and future generations.

The winners included:

Netcare’s Sustainability Leadership Netcare Parklands, St Augustine, and The Bay Hospitals were recognised for their outstanding efforts in waste reduction, recycling, energy efficiency, and social responsibility.

Small Manufacturing: Cipla Medpro’s Innovative Practices. Cipla Medpro Manufacturing, a first-time entrant, impressed judges with initiatives such as paperless operations, packaging optimisation, chemical reduction, and employee engagement.

Large Manufacturing: Freys Food Brands’ Resilience and Sustainability.

Freys Food Brands, also a first-time entrant, excelled with initiatives focused on water efficiency, packaging reduction, waste minimisation, and social responsibility.

The winners were selected through an on-site judging process, including audits on policy adherence, cleaner production, resource efficiency, record-keeping, communication, social responsibility, and site inspections.

“The innovation and professionalism displayed by this year’s entrants were exceptional. Congratulations to all winners and thank you to our sponsors, the judges and organisers for upholding the highest standards in promoting excellence in sustainability,” said Mr Goosen.

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Businesses rewarded for reducing waste