Save a Life Save Nature NPC, in partnership with MetPac-SA, successfully hosted the second instalment of the Waste Management Soccer Tournament on October 10-12, 2025. The event brought together 48 teams from Umlazi Township, building on the momentum of the inaugural tournament held on December 1-2, 2024.
This innovative recycling tournament aimed to raise awareness about the importance of proper waste management and recycling practices, while promoting environmental sustainability and community engagement through the power of sports. With over 700 school leaners and over 1000 community members in attendance, the event was a resounding success. The event generated significant interest in waste management and recycling issues.
The tournament provided a unique platform for community education and engagement, highlighting the critical role of waste reduction, reuse, and recycling in protecting the environment. This report summarises the tournament’s objectives, outcomes, and impact, and provides recommendations for future initiatives.
Background on Save a Life Save Nature.
- Biodiversity: we aim to preserve local ecosystem by educating communities about the impact of pollution on plant, wetland and animal life.
- Food Security: through initiatives such as greening and reclaiming illegal dumps sites, we promote the cultivation of crops.
- Recycling: We engage youth in collection, sorting, and separate different types of waste materials such as PET (plastic bottles), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), and Polypropylene (PP).
- Buy Back Centre: Recyclables collected by the Recycling league teams are taken to Buy Back Centres and children are also taken to this site for the purpose education about Separation, Sorting, weighing the product collected, counting of volumes and Bailing.
- Sports and Talent Development: We are committed to supporting local talent in sports, particularly soccer, as a platform for personal growth, while raising awareness around waste management and environmental stewardship.
Main Objectives of the Recycling Tournament
- To raise awareness about the importance of proper waste management and recycling practices among participants and spectators.
- To teach learners and the community about metal recycling and the infinite recyclability of metal cans.
- To promote environmental sustainability and community engagement through sports.
- To provide a platform for teams to showcase their skills and compete in a fun and healthy environment.
- To educate at least 98% participants and spectators about the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) and their role in waste management.
- To engage with local communities and involve them in waste management initiatives through the tournament.
- To promote the adoption of sustainable waste management practices among local businesses and organisations.
- To reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill.
- To achieve a recycling rate of at least 30 tones PET per month.
Eco-Warriors in Action!
The young heroes didn’t just kick balls, they also collected a staggering amount of recyclables from the streets of Umlazi before and during the tournament! The picture below showcases their dedication towards environmental sustainability. Keep up the fantastic work, team!
Recyclables Collected & Redirected!
The Eco-Warriors’ efforts paid off as the collected recyclables were taken to the Save a Life Save a Nature Buyback Centre, giving these materials a new lease on life and supporting a great cause!
Inspirational and Motivational Words from Mr. Goge, Edu Manager for CSW, now with Waste Directorate
As we conclude this tournament, we commend the progress made by SAVE A LIFE SAVE A NATURE since its inception last year. Their environmental ambassador, who runs the buyback Centre program at BB Section, is a shining example of dedication to our cause. The government fully supports this initiative, which promotes waste management and separation at source. We would like to thank MetPac-SA for their invaluable sponsorship and their utmost commitment and incredible support towards community recycling initiatives. AS a PRO MetPac-SA is a true example of the spirit of Ubuntu. MetPac-SA’s CEO Dr Kishan Singh is a shining example and a beacon of hope for socio-economic upliftment in South Africa. Together, MetPac-SA and SAVE A LIFE SAVE A NATURE BUYBACK CENTRE are committed to advancing metal packaging recycling in South Africa.
Words of Wisdom from Mr. Nhlakanipho Mzulwini, Chairman of Local Football Association
“The success of this Waste Management Soccer Tournament is a testament to the power of teamwork and preparation. Just like the buffaloes, who are undefeated when they stand together, we’ve achieved greatness through our collective efforts. I’d like to extend my gratitude to Nelisiwe Zulu, June Zondi, and Nomalanga Gumede for their tireless work, as well as all stakeholders who participated in this initiative. As the Chairman of the Local Football Association, I’m committed to ensuring the long-term success of this program. I’d also like to thank our coaches, who are not only mentors but also environmentalists, for their dedication to keeping our children safe and engaged in waste management activities.”
Encouraging Words from Ms. Khosi Mbatha, Project Manager at MetPac-SA
As a Producer Responsibility Organisation, we’re proud to be part of this Waste Management Soccer Tournament. We thank Mr. Dumisa for inviting us to partner on this initiative. We’re dedicated to engaging with the Umlazi community, ensuring that the momentum from this tournament is sustained and escalated. Our goal is to empower children to take an active role in minimising waste in their community. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to the waste pickers who work tirelessly in our community, braving the elements to keep our environment clean. We’re committed to making a positive impact and look forward to continued collaboration.”
Mr. Dumisa and Miss Khosi Mbatha
Environmental Awareness
As a Producer Responsibility Organisation, MetPac-SA demonstrated its commitment to supporting communities by introducing WEBOGAME to the tournament. This innovative approach not only entertained the youth but also educated them on critical environmental issues, including waste management and recycling. By participating in WEBOGAME, young players gained valuable knowledge and skills, empowering them to become future environmental stewards.
The Tournament
The competition was fierce, with teams battling it out in the last 16 and quarterfinals on October 10 and 11. The finals saw teams competing in a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
Support from MetPac-SA
Save a Life Save Nature was extremely grateful for the invaluable support provided by MetPac-SA, the esteemed partner. Approximately 700 to 800 young players and participants were provided with meals, ensuring that no child had to participate on an empty stomach. The CEO of MetPac-SA, Dr Singh, demonstrated his organisation’s commitment to the event by attending the tournament at the King Zwelithini Stadium in person and engaged with all stakeholders. MetPac-SA’s presence extended beyond providing sustenance; their team, led by Dr Singh, actively participated in the tournament, showcasing their dedication to the partnership.
Environmental Awareness
As a Producer Responsibility Organisation, MetPac-SA demonstrated its commitment to supporting communities by introducing WEBOGAME to the tournament. This innovative approach not only entertained the youth but also educated them on critical environmental issues, including metal waste management and metal recycling. Through WEBOGAMES, learners were taught about SEPARATION AT SOURCE and the importance of CIRCULAR ECONOMY. By participating in WEBOGAME, young players gained valuable knowledge and skills, empowering them to become future environmental stewards.
Conclusion
The Waste Management Soccer Tournament was a huge success, thanks to the partnership with MetPac-SA and the dedication of Save a Nature NPC. We look forward to next year’s event.
