Dr. Kishan Singh, CEO of MetPac-SA, delivered an insightful academic paper titled “Remodelling Post-Consumer Metal Packaging in South Africa” in support of Durban University of Technology (DUT) at the 11th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD) on 29 October 2025.
The Conference, themed “Driving Innovation, Sustainability, and Inclusivity for Green Economic Growth”, convened global business leaders, academics, and policymakers to explore actionable pathways for sustainable and inclusive economic development. The conference emphasised three interconnected priorities: leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI, blockchain, and renewable energy to enhance economic competitiveness and diversify industries; advancing sustainable development through circular economy models, renewable energy adoption, and green job creation aligned with South Africa’s carbon reduction goals; and promoting inclusive economic participation by empowering marginalised communities, youth, and women through skills development, funding access, and entrepreneurship. Serving as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, the conference promoted the sharing of innovative solutions to global economic and environmental challenges.
Dr. Singh’s presentation drew on his PhD research, which focused on designing a robust post-consumer metal packaging model that has not only delivered tangible industry value but also consistently exceeded the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) recovery targets gazetted in November 2021.
In his presentation, Dr. Singh highlighted strategies for enhancing the South African metal packaging value chain, including improved data collection for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), strengthened collaboration between recyclers, converters, and brand owners, and innovative interventions to increase recycling rates while reducing environmental impact.
Dr. Singh noted, “South Africa’s post-consumer metal packaging landscape presents both a responsibility and an opportunity. By implementing evidence-based models that exceed regulatory targets, we can transform waste into value, drive green growth, and contribute meaningfully to global sustainability goals.”
The paper and associated discussion generated strong interest among conference delegates, underscoring the importance of industry-academia collaboration in advancing circular economy practices and sustainable business models.
The 11th ICBMD Conference successfully showcased thought leadership from across the globe, with Dr. Singh’s contribution highlighting South Africa’s capacity to innovate within the metal packaging sector while achieving measurable sustainability outcomes.
