According to RecyclePaperZA, the paper recycling association of South Africa, South Africa recovered 1.1 million tonnes of recyclable paper products in 2020, putting the paper recovery rate at 69.8%.

Not only is it better for the environment, but it supports the economy — especially the livelihoods of waste collectors, RecyclePaperZA adds. If baled, 1.1 million tonnes of paper and paper packaging would cover 142 rugby fields or 200 soccer fields, or fill 1 322 Olympic swimming pools.

"More importantly, the paper recovered in 2020 saved 3.3 million cubic metres of landfill space and ensured that the recovered fibre was made into new products that we use every day," concludes Samantha Choles, communications manager for RecyclePaperZA.

For more information, visit www.recyclepaper.co.za. You can also follow RecyclePaperZA on Twitter or on Instagram