WESSA Annual Report 2023-2024

IMPACT

In August 2023 EPR Waste Association of South Africa (eWASA) and WESSA formed a strategic partnership to advance sustainable waste management and environmental education. Focussing on the Eco Schools Programme, the initiative targets ten schools in the Western Cape and ten in Gauteng. Leveraging eWASA’s waste manage ment expertise, WESSA’s environmental education, and conservation leader ship, the project also engages local SMMEs in the recycling sector. Running until December 2027, this partnership promotes circular economy practices and drives impactful change in waste reduction efforts. Enhancing sustainable waste management in schools

we have enabled communities to make lasting changes. In the Motherwell area, our Eco Schools programme helped ten schools take proactive steps in addressing environmental challenges, resulting in visible improvements to local environments and enriching both teachers and learners with valuable skills and knowledge. Similarly, our expansion and collaboration in Turfloop, Polokwane, has strengthened community efforts to integrate sustainable practices into everyday life. In addition, our continued efforts in another key project involving waste reduction, biodiversity restoration, and health and well-being promote environmental awareness, sustainable behaviours, and community develop ment. These collaborations showcase the power of partnership in effecting long-term behaviour change, rein forcing our shared commitment to building a sustainable future for all.

25 530 Direct learners 66 341 Direct learners 368 Direct teachers 3 281

10 500 male 15 030 female

25 555 male 40 786 female

Restoring biodiversity through indigenous plantings at schools

WESSA’s impact is significantly amplified through strategic partner ships with organisations that share our vision for sustainability. These collaborations have brought about meaningful transformation in communities like Qalabotjha in Villiers, where environmental, social, and economic challenges are being addressed through sustainable education initiatives. By driving awareness and encouraging action, Strategic partnerships

180 male 188 female

Indirect teachers 1 863 Community members 473 Schools registered 772 Trees planted 10 932 kgs Waste collected 34 Green flags awarded 1 400 male 1 881 female

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Ford Wildlife Foundation (FWF) for their invaluable support, which has enabled us to continue our mission of promoting environmental action and sustainability. FWF’s backing has been instrumental in sustaining and expanding our impact, helping us shape a generation of informed and responsible environmental stewards. Ford Wildlife Foundation supports environmental action in South Africa

WESSA Programmes and Projects team at uMngeni Valley Nature Reserve attending the annual strategic meeting

#We Are OneWESSA

WESSA ANNUAL REPORT 2023 – 2024

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