The Southern African Vinyls Association (SAVA) hosted its first-ever PVC Recyclers Networking and Showcase Day on 29 May 2025 at Plastics SA’s head office in Midrand.  

This landmark event, which was attended by more than 30 stakeholders, was followed by SAVA’s 14th annual general meeting. The purpose of the day was clear – bring together the entire PVC value chain to connect, collaborate and confront challenges facing the industry.  

Recyclers, converters, brand owners and other role players in the PVC recycling value chain attended the SAVA networking day.

Vinyl matters 

Monique Hinds, chief executive officer of SAVA, explains: “SAVA is not just here to defend our industry. We are here to tell the story of vinyl’s essential place in modern life – from safe and reliable water infrastructure through PVC pipes to flooring, medical equipment, shoes and clothing, household goods and so much more.” 

Annabe Pretorius of Plastics SA talked about PVC recycling in South Africa and facilitated the lively discussion with the recyclers.

Key themes 

Key themes that will continue to drive SAVA’s work in 2025 include: 

• Sustainability: Expanding recycling networks and infrastructure, and continuing to highlight the importance of the sustainable use of additives through SAVA’s Product Stewardship Commitment (PSC). 
• Innovation: Developing new PVC products and end markets for recycled content. 
• Education: Informing stakeholders about PVC’s benefits and global/local legislation. 
• Collaboration: Building bridges with the industry, government and international partners, including other Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs), to improve reporting and collection for recycled PVC. 
• Resilience: Navigating policy changes and global market shifts. 

Recyclers attending SAVA’s PVC Recyclers Networking and Showcase Day, which was held at Plastics SA in Midrand.

Recycling growth 

Despite PVC being regarded as difficult to recycle, South Africa has seen a steady increase in recycling performance.  

Of the 11% of the country’s nearly 2 million tons of plastic consumed in 2023, about 26 100 tons of PVC were recycled – a significant 16% recycling rate. 

Monique Hinds and Sarah Walters of SAVA.

“It became evident that while some recyclers are dealing with an oversupply of material, others are facing shortages. This highlighted a clear imbalance and the urgent need for better coordination across the value chain,” Hinds concluded. 

“It’s clear that the sector must collaborate more closely and receive the support needed to thrive.” – Monique Hinds, chief executive officer of SAVA 

For more information, visit SAVA: 

Tel: +27 21 531 0313 

Email: Admin@savinyls.co.za 

Website: www.savinyls.co.za