Entrepreneurs create and bring to life new technologies, products and services and in so doing, build new markets and jobs along the way. Like any economy aiming to move ahead, South Africa needs more entrepreneurs and REDISA (Recycling and Economic Development Initiative of South Africa) is creating the environment to develop such people.
An example is Jack Segae, a transporter who owns NSS Projects and Consults cc in Kempton Park. Segae is one of the many small businesses working with REDISA to assist in alleviating the problem of waste tyres in the country.
“When I registered my transport business with REDISA, I was not sure how things would work out but I was fascinated by the plan, especially the focus on developing small businesses and creating jobs while cleaning up the environment,” says Segae.
Transporters are the cornerstone in the collection of tyres from micro collectors and dealers and are tasked with delivering them to the approved depots and processing plants. Through the established and growing transporter network, REDISA is able to meet its mandate of diverting waste tyres and creating job opportunities, while managing the waste tyre problem.
“Transporters registered with REDISA form an integral part of the logistics process that brings the REDISA Plan to life. Thanks to the dedication of our transporters and collectors, REDISA has been able to meet and exceed requirements of the mandates set by government,” says REDISA director, Stacey Davidson.
REDISA supports small business development and drives the local tyre recycling industry through infrastructure investment, business support and research on new applications for waste tyres. The organisation has put 80% of its revenue into supporting the circular economy through investment back into industry and creating a market for the handling of waste tyres. At the end of June 2016, this had resulted in over 3 000 jobs and 200 small businesses being developed.
As Segae’s business grows, his goal is to continue learning and to develop his skills around tyre recycling. He also wants to educate others about the importance of a clean environment. “Being a transporter has taught me about dealing with customers and how important it is to consistently give good service. I have also learnt that having great commitment and discipline enables my job to be easier,” says Segae.
According to REDISA, as of January 2015, 77 614 tonnes of tyres have been collected, 34 depots have been opened across the country and 1 648 dealers have been serviced.