Let’s be honest: we’ve all tossed out a perfectly good jam jar, left the lights on, or let last week’s leftovers turn into science experiments. But living sustainably in Joburg doesn’t have to be hard or boring. From clever food-saving projects to community-driven recycling and green living initiatives, the city’s making it easier — and a lot more fun — to go eco-friendly. Tackle No-Waste November with us! We’re making our rands stretch further while being kind to the planet!
Refreshi
Ever dreamed of saving the planet and scoring a bargain at the same time? In South Africa, a third of all food gets wasted while millions go hungry every day. With the Refreshi app, you can order surprise bags of good-to-eat surplus food from cafés, bakeries, and restaurants at a massive discount. You never know what’s inside, but you know it’s better for your wallet! Plus, less perfectly good food is getting tossed into a dustbin.
StillGood
Similar to Refreshi, this handy web app connects you to discounted food from local retailers, supermarkets, and even pet shops! Grab a surprise Value Bag of perfectly good groceries at up to 65% off and help cut food waste while saving money.
The Glass Recycling Company
The Glass Recycling Company calls residents to deposit glass at local glass banks. Plus, there’s a challenge this November! Share your efforts on social media with #GlassRecyclingChallenge, and you could win spot prizes while helping reduce landfill waste. It’s a simple, community-driven way to support circular living and make sustainability part of everyday Joburg life.
Get Thrifty
Who doesn’t love a good excuse to go shopping? Trying to be less of a consumer doesn’t mean you don’t get to have nice things. Between online apps like Yaga and the vast array of thrift shops in Joburg, there are lots of unique items to browse! You can stick to your budget and be eco-friendly in a new outfit. Check out our list of favourites, and let’s get shopping!
The Fair Library
Get your hands on fresh reads while helping Joburg cut down on firsthand consumption. ‘Pay’ for your book by donating one of your own in exchange, or make a donation via SnapScan/Zapper. The Fair Library has permanent locations and pop-up events across the country. Connect with fellow bookworms while keeping the words flowing and the planet a little happier!
Jackson’s Real Food Market
We love Jackson’s for their commitment to locally sourced, organic ingredients and tasty food, but there are even more perks to stopping by! Their market shelves are stocked with planet-friendly household products you won’t find in mainstream supermarkets, from eco-friendly cleaning supplies to biodegradable consumables.
