The Kruger National Park has launched a new three-bin waste system as thousands of holidaymakers prepare to stream into the park this festive season. The initiative, unveiled on Tuesday 9 December 2025, is a collaboration between Petco, the Kruger National Park Honorary Rangers amongst others and aims to boost recycling efforts while protecting the park’s fragile environment.

With more than 270,000 visitors expected, waste generation is a major concern. The new system—also known as the Green Crew—separates recyclables from food and organic waste, as well as general non-recyclable rubbish. According to the partners, simple changes like effective waste separation can dramatically improve recycling outcomes and keep valuable materials circulating in the economy.

“Our mission has always been to keep valuable resources in the economy at their highest value for as long as possible, and to build a strong collection and recycling system in South Africa,” the partners explained. “Recyclables that remain clean can go straight back into the circular economy rather than ending up in landfills or being dumped into this beautiful environment.”

Dr Danny Govender, General Manager for Sustainable Development and Management at KNP, said clean, uncontaminated recyclables hold far greater value. “We want to prevent them from being soiled with food waste and hygiene products,” she said. Dr Govender added that the park hopes the system will inspire visitors to adopt better waste practices at home.

“Waste management is not just a protected area issue,” she emphasised. “It affects our communities and the places we live. Waste left behind impacts us all.”

The Kruger National Park urges visitors to use the new bins correctly and play their part in keeping South Africa’s most iconic wilderness clean for generations to come.