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Load Shedding Affects South Africa’s Waste Management Industry

Published

10 months ago

July 23, 2023

South Africa’s waste management industry has faced significant challenges due to load shedding, as stated by Mpendulo Ginindza, president of the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA). The effects of load shedding have been immense on South Africa’s economy and Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). Load shedding disrupts the regular waste collection services’ schedule, impacting the effectiveness of electric-powered waste collection vehicles and machinery, which rely on a steady electricity supply as reported by IOL.

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The logistical aspect of waste management, including collection, transportation, and disposal, is also affected by load shedding, impacting the flow of traffic and critical facilities that handle hazardous waste treated by electricity-powered equipment, such as incinerators, autoclaves, and temperature-controlled store rooms. Health facilities have reported increased diesel costs during higher load shedding stages, resulting in delays and missed waste collections. This waste buildup in neighbourhoods, business districts, and public areas creates unsanitary conditions and raises the risk of disease transmission.

Load shedding substantially impacts landfills, incinerators, recycling plants, and other waste treatment facilities, affecting their optimal functioning, which requires a steady supply of electricity. Without electricity, waste treatment procedures are suspended or interrupted, leading to an accumulation of untreated garbage. This poses environmental risks, as waste buildup in landfills releases toxic gases and harmful substances, contaminating nearby water, soil, and air sources. Methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas, is released into the atmosphere as waste decomposes without proper treatment, contributing to climate change.

Additionally, load shedding limits recycling capacity, resulting in a higher volume of waste being sent to landfills instead of being recycled or repurposed. Some waste treatment and recycling facilities have had to close down or turn down waste due to their inability to handle the load. South African waste management companies’ operations have broader implications beyond the country’s borders, impacting neighbouring countries dependent on their services.

The disruption caused by load shedding in the waste management industry poses significant public health risks and environmental concerns, emphasising the urgency to address this issue effectively.