On March 14th, the better. bellville. together. team, in collaboration with Metro Cleaners, embarked on the second session of a three-part training programme aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of street cleaners operating in the Bellville CBD. Led by better. bellville. together. waste project lead Candice Mostert and a team of waste educators, this training session marked a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to improve waste management practices and address environmental challenges in the area.
The training took place at the PTI, where cleaners gathered to participate in a comprehensive educational session focused on the identification and classification of different types of waste. With Bellville facing increasing pressures related to waste management and environmental sustainability, the importance of equipping street cleaners with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle these issues head-on cannot be overstated.
Throughout the session, the team of waste educators engaged participants in interactive discussions and practical demonstrations, shedding light on the various categories of waste and the importance of proper disposal methods. From recyclables to hazardous materials, cleaners were provided with valuable insights into the diverse nature of waste encountered in their daily work routine.
However, the training session served a dual purpose. In addition to educating cleaners on waste management practices, it also provided a platform for them to voice their concerns and share insights into the challenges they face while carrying out their duties in the Bellville area. This aspect of the training was particularly crucial, as it enabled the better. bellville. together. team to gain firsthand knowledge of the issues affecting street cleaners and explore potential solutions collaboratively.
As the training drew to a close, cleaners were tasked with presenting their ideas and proposed solutions for addressing the challenges identified during the session. This interactive exercise not only encouraged active participation but also fostered a sense of ownership and empowerment among the cleaners, reinforcing the notion that they play a vital role in shaping the future of waste management in Bellville.
Martin Jacobs, a Metro Cleaner supervisor, emphasised the significance of the training session, stating, “Cleaners gained knowledge and interest in recycling, and they found the need to be part of it. It is much needed because they work directly with waste. Cleaners are the ones who do the work on the ground, and we can be part of the solutions. If you win the cleaners, you win the battle.”
Looking ahead, the better. bellville. together. team remains committed to conducting additional training sessions and collaborating closely with street cleaners to implement sustainable solutions for waste management in Bellville. By empowering cleaners with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, safer, and more environmentally conscious community for all residents.
The training session was conducted by the better. bellville. together. team and represents a significant step forward in the journey toward achieving a cleaner and safer Bellville. By engaging street cleaners in educational initiatives and fostering collaboration, the initiative demonstrates the power of community-driven efforts in addressing pressing environmental challenges and building a more sustainable future.
