GGH3708 ASSIGNMENT 5 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) SEMESTER 2 2024 - DUE 20 SEPTEMBER
2024
ANSWERS
BLOG: My Recycling Journey with Bungcwele Recycling Centre
Locating the Drop-Off Point
Finding a convenient recycling drop-off point is the first step towards responsible waste
management. For my recycling journey, I chose to focus on plastic recycling, although
Bungcwele Recycling Centre in Schoenmakerskop, Gqeberha, primarily deals with
various recyclable materials, including glass, paper, and metals. The centre is located
at Schoenmakerskop, Gqeberha, 6011, approximately 10 kilometers from my home,
which translates to about a 15-minute drive. The centre’s operating hours are from 8
am to 5 pm, making it convenient for a drop-off before or after work. Finding this
location was straightforward using Google Maps, which provided the exact coordinates
and easy-to-follow directions. I did not encounter any difficulties locating the recycling
centre, but I noted that signage leading to the site could be improved to make it more
visible to first-time visitors.
Impact on Recycling Habits
Discovering the Bungcwele Recycling Centre has had a significant impact on my
recycling habits. Previously, I would occasionally recycle, often only when convenient.
However, knowing the exact location and accessibility of this recycling centre has
motivated me to be more consistent and intentional about my recycling efforts. I have
increased the amount of plastic I collect, sort, and drop off weekly. The convenience
of the drop-off point encourages me to recycle more frequently because it fits easily
into my weekly routine. Additionally, understanding the environmental impact of plastic
waste, I now feel a greater responsibility to contribute positively by reducing my
household waste and ensuring recyclable materials are properly disposed of.
Comparing Drop-Off Points
In comparing my chosen recycling centre with others used by my peers, I noticed some
commonalities and differences. Many peers also use local centres located at fuel
stations or within suburban areas, such as Total and Engen garages, which often offer
easy access to recycling facilities. Like Bungcwele, these locations are relatively
straightforward to find but vary in terms of hours of operation and the types of
recyclables they accept. A notable difference is that Bungcwele Recycling Centre has
, GGH3708 ASSIGNMENT 5 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) SEMESTER 2 2024 - DUE 20 SEPTEMBER
2024
a broader range of accepted materials compared to some peers' drop-off points, which
may only accept glass or plastics. This versatility makes it easier for me to drop off
various recyclables at once, simplifying the recycling process and increasing my
participation.
Daily Experience of Recycling
Day 1: I began by collecting plastic bottles and containers from my kitchen. Sorting the
plastics by type (PET bottles, containers, and lids) was a bit time-consuming, but it
was satisfying knowing these would not end up in a landfill.
Day 2: I continued to collect plastics and added some paper waste from old magazines
and newspapers. I found it helpful to keep a dedicated recycling bin in the kitchen,
which made sorting easier.
Day 3: I took my first load to the Bungcwele Recycling Centre. The process was
smooth, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Dropping off my recyclables felt
rewarding, knowing I was doing my part for the environment.
Day 4: My focus shifted to plastics from bathroom products like shampoo bottles. I was
surprised at how much waste I had accumulated once I consciously collected it.
Day 5: I documented my week's collection and took photos of the drop-off process. I
felt proud of my efforts and motivated to maintain this habit.
Day 6: I realized that incorporating recycling into my daily routine was becoming
second nature. I also started educating my family about the importance of sorting and
recycling.
Day 7: Reflecting on the week, I felt more connected to my role in waste management.
Recycling had shifted from a chore to a meaningful, routine activity that I looked
forward to continuing.
Personal Reflection
Recycling before this project felt like an occasional task that I engaged in without much
thought. Throughout this experience, my perspective has changed significantly.
Engaging daily in the act of collecting, sorting, and dropping off recyclables has made
me more mindful of my consumption patterns. I am now more conscious of the types
of packaging I purchase, opting for items that are easier to recycle. This project has
