Ocean Plastic Technologies, Lulama Trust and Scott Bader collaborate on community-led recycling in South Africa
Over the past 12 months, Ocean Plastic Technologies (OPT), a pioneer in innovative recycling solutions, has been able to amplify its efforts in recycling plastic waste thanks to funding from the Scott Bader Commonwealth, via the Lulama Trust. The R34 000 investment from Scott Bader has catalysed multiple high-impact programmes, enabling OPT to expand its efforts in tackling plastic pollution and build environmental awareness at a grassroots level.
The partnership has allowed a value chain to be established that incentivises local people to collect waste and deliver it to a central location where it’s sorted, washed and densified for resale into the converter market. At each step jobs are created adding value to communities, while cleaning the environment and completing the circular economy.
Matthew Major, Commonwealth Coordinator at Scott Bader South Africa, says that partnering with OPT is a perfect fit as it has provided the opportunity to put the company’s sustainability values into action.
“Supporting Ocean Plastic Technologies is a natural choice because their innovative recycling solutions not only tackle the pressing problem of plastic waste but also give communities the tools to create long-term change,” says Major. “It’s about more than recycling – we’re investing in the future of sustainable plastic management in South Africa.”
Oliver Nudds, Founder and CEO of OPT, says the collaboration with the Scott Bader Commonwealth has been a game-changer. “Their support is helping us make a real difference on the ground,” says Nudds.” Together, we’re not just tackling plastic waste, we’re empowering communities to see the value in recycling by creating opportunities for individuals to earn a sustainable income.”
The investment from Scott Bader has already yielded significant results including:
- Training programmes for Operators
OPT has expanded its skills development and training programmes for its operators, helping these entrepreneurs learn the skills needed to manage the micro-recycling pods efficiently and sustainably. Ultimately, this helps create jobs and boosts local economies. - Community clean-ups
With Scott Bader’s support, OPT has organised more clean-up events, removing plastic waste from waterways. These events are also a great way to bring people together, raise awareness and contribute to building more environmentally conscious communities. - Environmental education in schools
Inspiring the next generation is a big part of OPT’s mission and the funding received has allowed the company to reach more schools to talk with students about the impact of plastic waste and why recycling matters. These sessions spark curiosity and get young people thinking about how they can be part of the solution.
Nudds says together, these initiatives add up to create a ripple effect in communities. “All our programmes inspire active participation in waste management solutions,” he explains. “The result is a growing understanding that plastic waste isn’t just an environmental issue, it’s an opportunity for community development and economic growth.”
The collaboration between Ocean Plastic Technologies, Lulama Trust and Scott Bader is an example of what can be achieved when businesses and charities come together to tackle environmental challenges. It’s not just making economic and environmental progress – it’s about creating a ripple effect of change that benefits people and the planet.
