South Africa generates 122 million tonnes of waste annually, with only 10% recycled, while facing 32.9% unemployment. Yet creative entrepreneurs are turning this dual crisis into opportunity. Artists and waste reclaimers are transforming discarded materials into sustainable livelihoods and stunning art.
South Africa (05 November 2025) – Rubbish lining streets and piling up in landfills is an unsightly and ecological nightmare for South Africa. But some inspiring South African artists are turning the excess waste into sustainable art and business ventures. Through creativity and perseverance, these entrepreneurs have discovered a beautiful solution to the country’s pressing waste issue.
South Africa’s Waste Issue
Piling waste, improper disposal, and increased contamination are growing concerns among South Africans. The country’s waste production is approximately 122 million tonnes annually, with only 10% of the waste recycled. The overwhelming pollution leads to contaminated air, water and wildlife, destroying ecosystems and leading to long-term health impacts, including cancer
Unemployment also challenges 32.9% of South Africans, leading to immense social and economic disparities. While waste overproduction and unemployment are massive problems the country faces, waste management may be the solution needed to overcome both.
From reclaimers to artists, waste presents the opportunity to transform South Africans’ lives.
Artists Turning Trash into Treasure
Artists in South Africa have been turning recycled materials into works of art. Among them is Mbongeni Buthelezi, who melts waste plastics and uses them to paint. His incredible painted portraits capture life in the region with vivid colors and textures that bring the moments to life, all while highlighting the environmental urgency. The plastics that plagued the streets now keep them alive through his art, out of the earth and onto the canvas.
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Another notable artist is Lizl Naude, a Cape Town native and founder of Lilly Loompa, a home decor business made entirely from upcycled, or “hipcycled,” materials. Naude notes that her business was born from necessity, but she has always had an eye for creating beauty from whatever material she could find. Her business has created careers and saved her family.
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Overconsumption and consumerism are major driving forces in the waste crisis, and these artists are reclaiming the role of aesthetics and consumerism by producing materials that reduce waste. The artists are not alone — waste reclaimers are an invaluable part of these environmental and economic initiatives.
The Role of Waste Reclaimers
Waste pickers, more aptly called waste reclaimers in South Africa, sort, collect and sell recyclable materials from rubbish heaps. Their essential role massively contributes to the country’s recycling efforts, reducing waste and supporting the reclaimers.
Waste reclamation presents job opportunities and contributes to recycling efforts that the country desperately needs. It’s challenging work, and the heroic efforts of the reclaimers should not go unnoticed or unappreciated.
Unfortunately, despite their vital contribution, waste reclaimers often experience discriminatory remarks and treatment. They also face the dangers of waste management, especially from improper disposal of hazardous materials, including gas cylinders and toxic pharmaceuticals. Especially without access to protective equipment or healthcare, reclaimers are exposed to health risks that may impact them long-term.
Challenges and Opportunities
South Africa’s pollution crisis impacts everyone, but those working to control it are the most directly affected. Water scarcity, exacerbated by pollution, led to droughts like the worst in recorded history in Cape Town from 2015 to 2018. Vulnerable populations feel the environmental impacts the hardest, and with such high unemployment rates, much of South Africa is prone to severe effects from the pollution.
Social prejudice is another aspect that the reclaimers and artists face. The disadvantaged communities, especially women and minorities, experience social ostracisation. Working with trash is seen as a dirty job despite its essential function, leading to more discrimination.
Ultimately, these artists and reclaimers are taking huge strides toward cleaning and beautifying South Africa. These positions provide essential services, career opportunities and culture while restoring economic and environmental functions. South Africans have the responsibility to celebrate and support these workers to encourage a better future for the country.
How to Support or Get Involved
Over the past 30 years, policy and volunteer groups nationwide have been rising to address the waste management crisis. However, South Africans can support recycling and waste management initiatives from home. Consider the following methods to make an impact:
- Consume less: Consumerism and waste go hand in hand. Conscious spending and consumption can decrease waste while saving resources for more practical purposes.
- Recycle with care: Separate recyclable materials from regular waste. Clean jars and cans before throwing them away and handle hazardous waste like broken glass or toxic materials carefully — remember, real people handle them.
- Look for drop-off points: Some communities may not have easily accessible recycling infrastructure, but drop-off points take the waste to facilities.
- Support upcycling businesses: Purchase recycled and upcycled materials to reduce waste production and overconsumption while supporting local businesses and artists.
- Spread the word: Encourage community involvement for recycling efforts. Treat reclaimers with kindness and respect, and encourage others to do the same.
From recycling at home to working in the streets, South Africans can support their community in many ways.
A New Vision for South African Waste
The urgent waste and economic circumstances in South Africa impact everyone. Artists and reclaimers have played a significant role in reducing waste harm and building a future for themselves and others, but they still face challenges. Their work is invaluable to ensuring a brighter, cleaner future for the country. South Africans can support their communities by reducing waste, championing artists and reclaimers, and reframing waste as an opportunity to do better.
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