From waste to wealth: How glass recycling built a legacy

Silas Phasha, founder of Boki Trading Enterprise, has spent nearly two decades proving that recycling isn't just about waste – it's about impact. What started with one man and a single bakkie in Boksburg has become a powerful force for change in Gauteng and the Northern Cape.

Today, Boki Trading collects hundreds of tons of recyclables each year, with glass at the centre of it all. Silas believes glass is one of the most sustainable materials out there. "Glass is clean, pure, and 100% recyclable – over and over again," he says. "If we recycle it properly, it keeps our country clean and our economy moving."

Silas's mission is to help his community see the value in waste. He's worked across neighbourhoods, reducing litter while providing locals with the opportunity to earn income from what others throw away. Through recycling, families are putting food on the table, sending children to school, and walking a little taller.

A long-standing partnership with The Glass Recycling Company (TGRC) has helped Silas expand his reach and impact. TGRC's support has enabled him to reach new areas, collect larger volumes, and create more jobs. "TGRC's support has made a big difference," Silas says. "Without it, we wouldn't be reaching these volumes."

For Silas, the true reward is personal. Boki Trading now supports 10 of his relatives, including his son, who chose to work in recycling despite having formal qualifications. "That means the world to me," Silas says.

Silas's story is a testament to the power of recycling and the impact it can have on communities. By working together, we can build a cleaner, more sustainable South Africa.

Silas’s message is clear: glass recycling goes beyond just income, because it instills dignity, pride, and environmental responsibility in people.

Join Silas and thousands of South Africans who are transforming waste into jobs, cleaner communities, and a greener future. Whether you want to start your own glass recycling business or simply help make a difference, TGRC has made themselves available to support budding recyclers every step of the way.

Visit www.tgrc.co.za or WhatsApp 073 809 8467 today – because together, we can build a cleaner, more sustainable South Africa.