In a landmark development for Namibia’s recycling industry, a new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flaking plant has been commissioned in Okahandja city north of the capital Windhoek.
The N$24 million (about US$1.2 million) investment, a collaborative effort between Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) in Namibia and Plastic Packaging, is set to double Namibia’s mechanical recycling capabilities.
CCBA spokesperson Tshidi Ramogase said the plant’s opening, which was officiated by Namibia’s Environment, Forestry and Tourism Minister Pohamba Shifeta on Thursday, marked a significant stride towards environmental sustainability.
“The Coca-Cola system aims to drive systemic change through a circular economy for packaging. We are leading the industry to help collect and recycle a bottle or can for every one we sell by 2030,” Ramogase said in a statement.
The initiative is expected to have profound environmental and economic impacts, creating job opportunities and supporting the informal waste collection sector.
The facility would enable Namibia Polymer Recyclers, a subsidiary of Plastic Packaging, to process up to 500 tonnes of plastic waste monthly, converting PET bottles into flakes for international markets and reducing reliance on virgin PET materials.
The move aligns with global efforts to reduce packaging waste and promote sustainable practices.
JN/APA