Creative Sustainability Shines at “Turning Waste into Art” Event in Mpumalanga
As part of its commitment to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation, Fibre Circle has embarked on a transformative journey to support small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) within the waste management value chain. The organisation’s SMME Development Programme is a testament to this commitment, blending strategic support, innovation, and community development to drive sustainable growth.
A Hands-On Approach to Business Development
The SMME Development Programme, now in its second year, exemplifies Fibre Circle’s proactive approach to EPR. With a small cohort of entrepreneurs, the programme offers tailored support to help these businesses scale and thrive. The recent SMME Development Workshop, held on the 6th and 7th of June at the Bryanston Country Club, highlighted the programme’s impact and the unique challenges and opportunities SMMEs face in the sector.
Workshop Highlights and Key Takeaways
The two-day workshop was an intensive learning and networking opportunity, featuring discussions on critical topics such as community and local economic development, integrating technology with waste management, and addressing structural issues waste collectors face. These sessions were designed in response to the needs and requests of the participating SMMEs, ensuring the content was relevant and practical. Ashleigh Dlamini, a project consultant for Fibre Circle, emphasised the workshop’s unique approach. “We have kept the cohort deliberately lean to understand the challenges in their space and respond quickly. Over time, we can replicate what we’re doing at scale from an informed position,” she explained.
Success Stories and Innovative Solutions
Participants in the programme have shown remarkable innovation and dedication. One such example is a company providing support services to waste reclaimers. Through corporate sponsorship, they established a camp offering essential services such as water, solar power, and an on-site baler, allowing reclaimers to process recyclables more efficiently and sell them at higher prices. This initiative and others like it reflect a broader trend among Fibre Circle’s partners. Many are transitioning from simple buyback centres to more complex operations involving manufacturing and beneficiation. This vertical and horizontal integration within the value chain is a positive sign of growth and sustainability.
Strategic and Progressive Programme Design
What sets Fibre Circle’s SMME Development Programme apart is its strategic and long-term focus. Unlike many SMME initiatives that are confined to short-term fiscal targets, Fibre Circle’s programme includes evaluation at multiple intervals, both pre- and post-participation. Supported SMMEs are assessed for at least two years, ensuring sustained impact and growth. The programme is rooted in a Theory of Change, with clear performance and success criteria agreed upon in advance. This deliberate, informed, and results-oriented approach is crucial for driving meaningful change within the value chain. Fibre Circle’s ability to leverage an ecosystem of stakeholders enhances the support available to participants, significantly increasing their chances of success compared to internal enterprise development programmes.
Tailored Support and Real-Life Learning
Fibre Circle’s programme is designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach. Participants benefit from personalised mentoring, coaching, and consulting, with real-life case studies and experiential learning forming the core of the curriculum. This tailored support is essential for addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by each business.
Broader Impacts and Future Potential
The SMME Development Programme has the potential to become a significant change agent within the EPR Scheme for Paper and Packaging. By supporting SMMEs, the programme not only fosters business growth but also contributes to broader environmental and social goals. CEO of Fibre Circle, Ms Leeuta, emphasised the critical role of SMMEs in achieving the vision of zero waste to landfill and creating a cleaner, more sustainable South Africa. “Their passion for environmental preservation, people development, and making a positive impact in our society is something we should laud,” says Ms. Leeuta. She underscores the importance of joint efforts from the public sector, private sector, and ordinary South Africans in supporting these businesses and fostering a robust circular
Conclusion
Fibre Circle’s SMME Development Programme is a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the waste management sector. By providing tailored support, fostering collaboration, and taking a long-term, strategic approach, Fibre Circle is empowering SMMEs to become key players in the circular economy. As the programme continues to evolve and expand, it promises to drive significant environmental and economic benefits, setting a benchmark for similar initiatives.