Packaging and recycling specialist ALPLA has announced the construction of a state-of-the-art recycling plant in Ballito, South Africa, as part of its commitment to strengthening the regional circular economy. The plant, set to begin construction in summer 2023 and targeted for completion in autumn 2024, represents the company’s first entry into the African recycling market. With a capacity of 35,000 tonnes of recycled PET material, the plant aims to play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and reducing waste in the region.
ALPLA’s investment in the new recycling facility reflects its goal of establishing a bottle-to-bottle cycle at the location, contributing to the supply of safe, affordable, and sustainable packaging. CEO Philipp Lehner emphasizes the company’s mission: “Our goal is a bottle-to-bottle cycle at the location of our activities. In this way, as a recycler and producer, we can secure the supply of safe, affordable, and sustainable packaging worldwide and at the same time promote awareness of the recyclable material.”
The move also aligns with the growing market demand for high-quality products made from recycled materials in South Africa, as nationwide collection systems expand. ALPLA has been actively supporting the development of collection value chains and promoting awareness of recycling in collaboration with stakeholders like PETCO, a Producer Responsibility Organization. The company has partnered with a local entity to ensure success in the large-scale project, considering local expertise and understanding of the cultural and economic landscape.
In addition to advancing recycling efforts, ALPLA’s investment is expected to have significant positive impacts on the region’s economy and job market. The new plant in Ballito is projected to employ around 100 people, and the development of the regional collection system is forecasted to generate over 10,000 indirect jobs in the coming years.
ALPLA already has a strong presence in the southern Africa region, with representation in seven locations, including South Africa, Mauritius, and Angola, employing over 1,000 people. The company’s move into recycling resources in Africa reflects its commitment to supporting customers in their sustainability goals by offering high-quality packaging solutions made from recycled materials. Javier Delgado, ALPLA Regional Managing Director for Africa, Middle East, and Turkey, believes that “regional anchoring and global know-how create the basis for strong partnerships and trust,” emphasizing the company’s commitment to being a reliable partner in the region’s growth and sustainability efforts.