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Plastics SA reported a 67% increase in recyclate consumption for 2024, with mechanical recycling rates at 28.4%. Total recycled plastics reached 471,000 tonnes, indicating continued growth. The packaging sector accounts for 49.4% of plastics use, and diverse end-markets are emerging for recycled materials.

However, South Africa's waste management system faces challenges, with 36% of households lacking regular waste collection. The organization urges improvements in waste collection infrastructure, support for local recyclers, and collaboration among government, industry, and consumers to strengthen the circular economy.