Redefine introduces ‘Cash4Trash’ programme to incentivise glass or aluminium packaging in Africa

Redefine Properties has collaborated with Cash4Trash (C4T) to create innovative reverse vending machines that utilise 4IR technology to automate the process of collecting, sorting, and handling used beverage containers for recycling or reuse.

The concept was the winning idea of REIT's first Innovation Challenge, and with Redefine's assistance, it will be tested at their head office in Sandton.

The CEO of Redefine, Andrew König, commented: "We are extremely thrilled to launch this exciting opportunity today, which has recycling and a clean future at its core. This is in line with Redefine's vision to put the environment at the heart of everything we do."

"It is also especially pleasing to see our first Innovation Challenge winner being able to bring their superb idea into the market, and we look forward to watching it take root and help SA stay clean and green," König asserted.

C4T has till now recycled 150,000 aluminium cans and 10,000 glass bottles by advertising and normalising recycling in Africa. It was officially established in 2019 after CEO Mary-Ann Mandishona presented the eco-conscious idea at Redefine's Innovation Challenge in Soweto. The recycling initiative will generate income and encourage communities to build a sustainable future. The machines also urge consumers to recycle and place the financial responsibility of plastic waste on the producer.

The Cash4Trash policy is extremely beneficial for places with no kerbside collection facility. Moreover, by recycling unused trash, the community can keep the area clean, alongside earning some extra money.

Mandishona envisions C4T transforming Africa into a green, self-sustainable continent by empowering side-lined communities with innovative eco-technology.

"Incentivising our communities with green rewards or digital cash is what will empower our unemployed youth to get out there and collect bottles. This is about community employment creation," Mary-Ann spoke out.

"Digital rewards will be displayed on the screen instantly. When you have finished, the RVM will ask you on the screen if you want to Redeem or Donate. Touch the button you want and then put your cell phone number. Then press finish – it's as easy as that," Mandishona concluded.

The RVM machine accepts glass, plastic bottles, and aluminium cans when placed with the bottom facing into the receptacle hole. The RVM will automatically accept or reject (if there is no barcode) the bottle. Afterwards, recyclers receive a text with instructions on downloading the Cash 4 Trash SA app (available on iOS and Android) to redeem their digital rewards. These rewards can be sent to friends or family or spent at major retailers (e.g. Checkers, Game, Makro, Vodacom, MTN, Pick and Pay). The app also tracks e-wallet balances and provides "green" data analytics on recycling habits.

"With the world in desperate need of sustainable green solutions, we all need to take that extra step and do our part. Let's get recycling today and get rewarded in the process," Andrew König announced.