29 June 2022

eWASA appoints Packaging Executive for Section 18 EPR

Submitted by: Monique Holtzhausen
eWASA appoints Packaging Executive for Section 18 EPR

The e-Waste Association of South Africa (eWASA) is proud to announce the appointment of Adri Spangenberg as Packaging Executive, with effect from 1 July 2022.

“In order for us to be compliant with the National Environmental Management: Waste Act and the Industry Waste Management Plan (IWMP) whereby manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and distributors of electrical and electronic equipment are obligated to take back and recycle all types of end of life products, eWASA has registered as a PRO in all three sectors, i.e. Electrical and Electronic Equipment, Lighting as well as Paper and Packaging. All three these sectors have their own types of packaging which need to form part of our strategy as we aim to create a “one stop shop” for our members. Having the calibre of person like Adri onboard who has ample experience in dealing with packaging, recycling, developing end-markets and understanding the challenges in the industry, is of great benefit to us!”, says Keith Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of eWASA.

Adri is seasoned marketer, communicator and strategic thinker. Over the past twelve years she was instrumental in growing South Africa’s polystyrene recycling industry to become one of the world leaders in her position as Chief Executive Officer of the Polystyrene Association of SA (PolySA). She was also the CEO of the SA Vinyls Association (SAVA).

Commenting on her new position, Adri expresses that she is very excited about the opportunities and experiences that await her as part of the eWASA team.

“It is great to be able to work with a group of like-minded individuals who are committed to delivering cost-effective compliance on behalf of their members. Since its inception in 2005, eWASA has grown an impressive footprint in the country. They represent some of the largest producers of the household electrical and electronic industry. Moreover, many of their recyclers have a national footprint and are therefore in the ideal position to handle packaging collection and recycling. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply my knowledge of both the packaging and the recycling industries as I assist eWASA with the development of their collection and recovery initiatives for packaging waste that accompanies the products. We not only have to ensure that we meet the strict targets that have been set by Government, but must also strive to do it in such a way that it helps to grow and benefit the industry and develop a true circular economy,” Adri says.