South Africa’s Paper Recycling Rate Rises to 63.3% in 2025, Industry Urges Better Practices

Johannesburg, South Africa – South Africa’s paper recycling rate rose to 63.3% in 2025, marking an increase from 60% in the previous year, according to the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa.

The improvement reflects continued recovery efforts across the country, supported by a network of collectors that includes formal recycling systems, small businesses, schools, and informal waste pickers. These groups play a key role in diverting paper and packaging waste from landfill and reintroducing it into the production cycle.

In total, approximately 1.2 million tonnes of paper and paper packaging were recovered during the year and reused to manufacture new products such as packaging materials and tissue.

Despite the gains, challenges remain in improving the quality and consistency of collected recyclables. A significant portion of paper waste is still lost due to contamination or improper disposal, limiting its suitability for recycling. The association noted that commonly recyclable materials such as cardboard boxes and paper bags often become unrecoverable when mixed with wet or general waste.

PAMSA emphasized the need for improved consumer participation and better waste separation practices to sustain progress. It called on households, businesses, and institutions to adopt simple measures such as separating recyclables at source and ensuring materials remain clean and dry.

The association maintains that while the upward trend demonstrates progress in South Africa’s recycling system, further improvements will depend on broader public engagement and more consistent recycling habits nationwide.