Polyco expands recycling education programme to 16,000 Grade 1 learners
Polyco's Million+ Grade 1 Recycling Education Programme scales up to 16,000 learners.
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In a significant stride towards raising environmental awareness and fostering sustainable habits, Polyco has expanded its recycling education programme in 2026, reaching 16,000 Grade 1 learners across 100 schools. This initiative, part of their flagship Million+ Grade 1 Recycling Education Programme, marks a pivotal step in shaping a culture of recycling from an early age.
Now entering its third consecutive year, the programme's goal is clear: instil lifelong recycling habits in Grade 1 learners, making them conscientious stewards of the environment. The campaign is strategically designed to advocate for the separation of waste at the source and reinforce the principles of a circular economy, aiming to keep plastic packaging out of South Africa's landscapes.
The journey began with the rollout in Gauteng, featuring activations at Moretele Primary School in Mamelodi on 20 January and Freeway Park Primary School in Boksburg the following day. During these events, 300 eager learners participated in interactive sessions that made recycling engaging and accessible.
The initiative swiftly moved to the Western Cape, with activations taking place at Bergrivier NGK Primary School in Wellington on 22 January and Lourier Primary School in Retreat on 23 January. Polyco plans to continue its summer outreach with a visit to Kleinfontein Primary School in Swellendam later this week, followed by sessions in KwaZulu-Natal next month.
Patricia Pillay, CEO of Polyco PRO NPC, emphasised the critical role of early education in fostering responsible environmental behaviours. “This programme is about shaping mindsets early. Grade 1 is a critical entry point for environmental education,” she remarked. “Through our in-school activations, we introduce recycling in a way that is fun, relatable and easy to understand, ensuring learners connect these lessons to their daily routines from an early age.”
Every participating Grade 1 learner receives a comprehensive educational toolkit designed to enhance their recycling knowledge. This toolkit includes a drawstring bag, lunchbox, water bottle, stationery set, and a recycling education booklet, making the learning experience both enjoyable and practical.
In addition to the Million+ programme, Polyco has renewed its partnership with Pick n Pay School Club, a collaboration that has flourished since 2019. Together, they engage with over 2,700 schools nationwide, reaching an impressive 2 million learners each year.
The Million+ Grade 1 Recycling Education Programme stands out as one of South Africa's largest early-childhood recycling education initiatives. Its emphasis on interactive learning serves to grow a culture of recycling that extends beyond classrooms, impacting homes and communities throughout the nation. Activations for this academic year are scheduled to take place during the third and fourth weeks of January, coinciding with the beginning of the school year.