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Illegal Dumping

23 March 2026 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Celebrates Global Recycling Day with Young Innovators

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Celebrates Global Recycling Day with Young Innovators

23 March 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), in collaboration with Mossel Bay Local Municipality, celebrated Global Recycling Day on 18 March 2026 at Herbertsdale Primary School, embracing the theme “Don’t Waste, Think Opportunity.”

This celebration brought creativity and environmental awareness together as learners participated in a unique activity where they designed garments using recyclable materials. Others transformed waste into imaginative fashion statements, demonstrating that recycling can be both innovative and inspiring.

In a show of inclusivity and encouragement, every learner was recognised as a winner, while the top five participants were highlighted for their exceptional creativity and innovative use of recyclable materials. This approach not only celebrated excellence but also motivated broader participation among learners.

The initiative successfully linked recycling to real-world creativity, spreading the message that waste can be transformed into opportunity. To ensure the sustainability of these lessons, the school was also equipped with four colour-coded recycling bins, promoting proper waste separation as part of daily school activities.

Highlights of activities from the Global Recycling Day celebration held on 20 March 2026 at Herbertsdale Primary School.

GRDM further acknowledged the valuable support of its partners, including POLYCO, Aquelle, and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning. Their collaboration played a key role in making the event impactful and sustainable.

This initiative forms part of GRDM’s ongoing commitment to environmental education and community awareness, empowering young people to adopt responsible waste management practices and to see opportunity in what is often discarded.

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04 March 2026 Media Release: GRDM Engages Schools and Communities in Fight Against Waste and Illegal Dumping

Media Release: GRDM Engages Schools and Communities in Fight Against Waste and Illegal Dumping

04 March 2026

During February, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Waste Management Section continued rolling out its Green School Program by introducing a new colour-coded bin system at participating schools across the district.

The programme aims to strengthen waste minimisation education and encourage environmental awareness among learners. After all, waste minimisation starts with awareness and action. By equipping schools with the right tools and knowledge to manage waste responsibly, we are empowering learners to become champions of sustainability in their own households and communities.

On 12 February, GRDM, in collaboration with the Bitou Municipality, visited two schools in the Bitou Municipal area to introduce the program. The following day, on 13 February, GRDM collaborated with Landmark to hand over 85 recycling boxes to Outeniqua High School.  These boxes will enable learners to separate waste directly in their classrooms, making recycling part of their daily routine.

The following week, on 18 February, the GRDM Waste Management Section, in collaboration with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve, extended the programme to three schools in the Hessequa Municipal area, reaching more than 700 learners.

Learners were taught how to separate waste correctly, followed by interactive Q&A sessions to test their understanding. They also practised identifying the correct waste streams for each colour-coded bin, reinforcing the importance of responsible waste management in a practical and engaging way.

“GRDM would like to acknowledge POLYCO, MPACT, and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (Western Cape Government) for partnering with us to ensure the success of this programme. The Green School Program is a GRDM-led initiative that promotes sustainability through practical education, hands-on activities, and partnerships. The programme focuses on waste minimisation and recycling and equips learners with the skills and values needed to make eco-conscious choices,” said Innocentia Sikweyiya, GRDM District Waste Management Officer.

In Hessequa, GRDM collaborates with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR), a non-governmental organisation focused on biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and community engagement. In the George area, GRDM works in partnership with Landmark to support the implementation of the programme. Through these partnerships, the initiative introduces clearly marked bins for paper, plastic, metal/cans, and glass, making it easier for learners and staff to practise responsible waste separation

Illegal Dumping Silent Walk / March

On Friday, 27 February, the George Local Municipality hosted a Silent March Against Illegal Dumping in Thembalethu. Though the march was silent, the collective message was loud and clear: illegal dumping has no place in our communities.

Led by the Executive Mayor of George and the Portfolio Head for Community Services, participants carried placards with powerful messages urging an end to illegal waste disposal. The march symbolized unity and determination to protect the environment and promote cleaner, healthier neighbourhoods.

The event concluded with closing remarks from the Garden Route District Municipality Waste Management Section (GRDM), highlighting the importance of collaboration between local government and communities in reclaiming our dignity and ensuring the right to live in a clean and healthy environment.

“Together, participants stood in silence, but their voices spoke volumes. Illegal dumping is unacceptable, and the commitment to building a cleaner, safer Thembalethu for all remains strong,” said Sikweyiya

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Photos capturing some of the school visits and activities conducted across the district during February.

19 January 2025 Media Release: Mattresses and blankets handed over to Graceland Crèche by GRDM

Media Release: Mattresses and blankets handed over to Graceland Crèche by GRDM

For immediate release
19 January 2026

Today, 19 January 2026, the Department Community Services, handed over mattresses and blankets to Graceland Crèche in Conville, George, as part of an Early Childhood Development Health and Hygiene Awareness session presented by Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from GRDM.

EHPs Janine Koopman (left) and Lana Don (right) demonstrate proper hand wash techniques and an illegal dumping presentation to kids and caretakers of Graceland Crèche.

To start off the programme, the team of EHPs Janine Koopman and Lana Don, demonstrated how hands must be washed during the day in order to prevent the spread of germs and prevent illnesses. Another important aspect of concern in the environment, is illegal dumping of litter in the environment. During the presentation the team emphasised the importance how litter must be handled, that it must be put in a dustbin instead of littered in the communities. All kids present were also encouraged to share these messages with parents at home.

When handing over the items to the crèche, Cllr Hoogbaard emphasised that “although it might not be plenty items to fulfil all the needs of the creche, the gesture comes from a District Municipality that cares for its communities”.

Johan Compion, Senior Manager responsible for Municipal Health at GRDM, during his address emphasised the importance of proper rest in a learning environment stating that “good rest allows your body to restore enough energy in order for you to focus better in class, especially during lessons – you think better, you listen better and complete your tasks better in the class,” he emphasised.

The principal of the crèche, Mandy Booysen, extended words of gratitude to all EHPs who delivered presentations about good hygiene practices and the negative impact of illegal dumping on the environment. She also stated that “every single gesture of support to the facility is appreciated,” when she referred to how expensive daily essentials are to operate optimally and to provide the best possible service to the children enrolled at the crèche.

“We thank the District Municipality, Cllr Hoogbaard and the team for the visit today and for choosing Graceland Creche so early in the year,” Booysen added.

DID YOU KNOW?

  •  Illegal dumping causes the spread of bacteria, diseases, causes rodent infestations, causes water, soil, and air pollution and it also blocks our water network systems. It furthermore leads to pollution of air, water and soil, and can also attract pests and create unsanitary conditions. In addition, it can also decrease property values and negatively impact the overall aesthetic of an area.
  • Hand washing benefits both young and old and is the first line of defence in preventing the spread of disease and must be embraced vigorously by families, schools and health care professionals.

Gallery:

ENDS

16 January 2026 Media Release: Environmental Practitioners from GRDM ensured health and safety standards during holiday period

Media Release: Environmental Practitioners from GRDM ensured health and safety standards during holiday period

For immediately release
16 January 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has implemented its Seasonal Municipal Health Safety Plan to ensure the health and safety of residents and visitors during the December holiday period.

As tourists entered the region GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) intensified their Municipal Health plans conducting inspections while monitoring and creating awareness across all seven local municipal areas to protect public health during the busiest time of the year.

The following inspections were conducted:

Knysna Region:

  • Formal food premises – 54
  • Informal food premises – 14

Pre-seasonal Health and Hygiene inspections were conducted of at major food outlets, malls and shopping centres. During this period no food related incidents were reported to this office.

George – Wilderness region:

  • Formal food premises – 44
  • Spaza shops – 25

Premises were under severe pressure due to the influx of tourists to the area. This made cleaning as-you-go challenging and most cleaning was done after business hours. Hiring more staff is an option that can help clean continuously, but it comes at a cost. Premises must not stretch beyond their reach in Decembers and accommodate more customers than they are able to handle – this is to ensure that food safety remains prioritised.

Although people followed health and hygiene standards, a possible scabies outbreak was reported in the area. Following inspections conducted, it was discovered that only two cases occurred, after which the facility acted to prevent further spread in the area. Health education was provided to the management of the facility.

Another complaint of children defecating in the water at the Touws River was received and subsequently a swimming section was cornered off for no swimming due to contamination. It is important to be reminded that there are clean public bathroom facilities to use and that many people also swim in the same water, so the water must be left in the clean condition it was found in.

Stalls/markets in the area were also monitored to ensure ongoing compliance, and mostly everyone complied.

George – Outeniqua region:

  • Formal food premises: 86
  • Informal food premises: 107

Highlights experienced in this area were that all informal food stalls were registered prior to events; health and hygiene requirements were met by all food handlers/owners; and minor incidences were addressed and rectified immediately showing co-operation and willingness to adhere. Furthermore, no health and hygiene complaints were received from various platforms during the holiday period.

EHPs extended a message of gratitude to all businesses for their cooperation and the commitment that they have showed towards the environmental well-being of the communities of the Garden Route.

Bitou region:

The following inspections were conducted:

  • Formal food premises: 39
  • Information food premises: 1
  • In the Bitou area, residents and visitors followed and complied to health and hygiene standards – all inspected food premises complied, with no cases of food poisoning reported.

Mossel Bay region:

The Mossel Bay area hosted various events including the:

  • “Matriek Baai”
  • Jazz Festival
  • “Afrikaans is Groot” (2 events)
  • 2 x Christmas White Tents in Hartenbos
  • Markets – Brinkleys; Great Brak River
  • Amongst others.

With these events that were hosted in Mossel Bay, the EHPs also included inspections of these and other premises in their planning for the holiday period. The following premises were inspected:

  • Formal food premises (complied): 58
  • Informal food premises (complied): 70
  • Spaza shops (complied): 9
  • Other premises (complied): 18

A highlight of this area was that all informal food stalls were registered prior to events. Health and hygiene requirements were met by all food handlers/owners, however, minor incidences were addressed and rectified immediately’ showing co-operation and willingness by business owners and managers to adhere to the health and hygiene standards. No health and hygiene complaints were received from various platforms during the holiday period.

Furthermore, EHPs from the Mossel Bay region did regular monitoring of the bacteriological standard in the Hartenbos River during the holiday. From the total of four samples taken at two sampling points at the Hartenbos River, all the samples complied bacteriologically.

Hessequa region:

The following inspections were conducted:

  • Formal food premises: 37
  • Informal food premises: 14
  • Spaza shops: 52

Most of the inspections were follow-ups as to ensure compliance to relevant regulations. Caravan parks were well maintained by the Hessequa Municipality with excellent hygiene standards applied.

The following events took place:

  • 20 Dec 2025 – Cooler Box Chill out, Riversdale
  • 20 Dec 2025 – Cooler Box Chill out, Heidelberg
  • 21 Dec 2025 – Cooler Box Chill out, Albertinia
  • Christmas Outreach
  • 27 Dec 2025 – Summer Baze

These events were regarded as low-risk events as only one food trader were operating at the events. Hygiene aspects with regards to food safety, waste management and sanitation, were thus adhered to.

Oudtshoorn and Kannaland:

Between 15 December and the 5 January 2026, 41 inspections were conducted in the Klein Karoo region.  This included formal food premises and general surveillance inspections. No food related complaints were received over the festive season.

Regrettably, the water situation in Kannaland worsened to the point where water had to be transported to areas where there was no accessible water available.  Kannaland also received assistance from various sources to help alleviate the problem.

Two crucial lessons learned during the festive period, is communication and safety.

  1. Communication is critical: Effective and efficient Municipal Health Services requires constant dialogue between management and the public and that regular training and awareness sessions at business premises be conducted.
  2. Safety:  It is not just the EHPs responsibility; it is a cooperative effort involving everyone to maintain a healthy and safe environment.

The Municipal Health Services of GRDM extends a word of gratitude to the community for taking care over the festive season and wishing everyone a prosperous and blessed 2026.

ENDS

30 September 2025 Media Release: GRDM EHPs in Knysna promote Clean Air Awareness at Nekkies/Sanlam Mall in celebration of World Environmental Health Day

GRDM EHPs in Knysna promote Clean Air Awareness at Nekkies/Sanlam Mall in celebration of World Environmental Health Day

For immediate release
30 September 2025

The Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from the Municipal Health Section based in Knysna, rolled out a Clean Air Promotion Campaign at the Nekkies/Sanlam informal shopping and entertainment centre, in celebration of World Environmental Health Day.

This area, known for frequent open burning of waste, was strategically selected to raise awareness on 26 September 2025, about the dangers of open burning and its impact on both public health and the environment.

The primary goal of the campaign was to educate the public on the risks associated with open waste burning, including: The release of toxic air pollutants that contribute to respiratory illnesses and other chronic diseases. And the environmental impact, such as poor air quality and contribution to climate change.

Health related topics covered include:

  • The inhalation of smoke and toxic fumes;
  • Alternative waste management methods, such as waste separation and municipal collection;
  • Legal implications of open burning; and
  • The importance of community responsibility.

The campaign empowered the community with knowledge and tools to report and prevent illegal burning activities. Community members were provided with educational  magnets  designed to serve as reminders in their homes. The magnet papers include contact details to report incidents of illegal waste burning, helping residents take an active role in protecting their environment. Participants furthermore appreciated the visual and practical materials, which made the information easy to understand and applicable in daily life. The interactive approach encouraged open dialogue, where locals shared their experiences and challenges related to waste management.

Residents of the area welcomed the initiative, and others expressed their willingness to learn and their commitment towards change. The success of the campaign was due to the strong collaboration among key stakeholders, including the GRDM EHPs Sive None, Linden Herwels, Mthethwa Sithonga, led by Chief EHP, James McCarthy and the Law Enforcement Unit of the Knysna Municipality.

Feature Image: GRDM EHPs and Law Enforcement officials from Knysna Municipality during the campaign.

ENDS

04 November 2024 Media Release: Illegal dumping a threat to the prosperity of the Garden Route

Media Release: Illegal dumping a threat to the prosperity of the Garden Route

For immediate release
4 November 2024

“Industrial- scale illegal dumping and littering was one of the major drivers impacting on the severity of the April 2022 Durban flood disaster when some 459 people lost their lives with billions of Rands’ damage to hard infrastructure, property and the economy”, says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).

Globally the advent of climate change enhanced the severity and regularity of flooding with storm water drainage systems and infrastructure simply not designed for such severe events. During the Kwazulu-Natal 2022 floods, the impact of storm water drainage systems blocked by waste and rubble rendered them ineffective to channel storm water. The severe flooding caused severe damage to infrastructure like bridges, roads and resulted in thousands of tons of waste washing up on KZN beaches – a disaster on its own.

All Garden Route towns are serviced weekly in terms of standard waste removal best practice but despite best efforts illegal dumping and littering prevail unabated.

The degrading impact of littering and pollution on the well- being and quality of life of communities is well documented. Changes in climate will further the damage caused by unmanaged waste and litter if social behaviour patterns do not change.

Garden Route municipalities have no choice but to spend millions of Rands, earmarked for service delivery annually, to clean illegal dumping sites and remove mountains of litter from vacant land and township borders.

Littering and illegal dumping, just like the impact of invasive alien plants have become an immense threat to not only the environment but also human safety and well- being. The degradation of water quality, river health, bio-diversity, marine and coastal environments and general quality of life of those living in the Garden Route is at stake.

Many Garden Route residents do take ownership with regular community beach and river clean-ups, and we salute all who assist the overwhelmed public services.

The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a public platform for environmental managers and a climate change think- tank. (grefscli.co.za).

Feature Image: Children are often subjected to illegal dumping hotspots.

ENDS