In the pursuit of a sustainable future, recycling plays a vital role. Imagined Earth is a pioneering initiative that aims to make recycling easier and more rewarding for individuals and communities in Cape Town.
By providing innovative reverse vending machines (RVMs), Imagined Earth encourages people to return their packaging waste in exchange for monetary rewards and exciting benefits.
Imagined Earth’s mission is to empower individuals to take an active role in recycling by offering incentives through its RVMs. These cutting-edge machines accept plastic, metal, glass, tetra pak and aluminium cans, creating a convenient and efficient recycling process.
By simply depositing your recyclable packaging waste into an Imagined Earth RVM, you earn money and rewards while contributing to a cleaner environment.
Imagined Earth believes that sustainability is a collective effort. The organisation invites everyone to join its community and play a crucial role in shaping a greener future. By participating in the recycling programme, individuals actively contribute to building a cleaner and more sustainable city and world.
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At the heart of Imagined Earth’s initiative lies the concept of the circular economy. By incentivising recycling, the machines facilitate the collection, sorting and processing of billions of empty cans and bottles every year.
Through its partnership with INCOM TOMRA, a Chinese-Norwegian joint venture, Imagined Earth brings state-of-the-art reverse vending solutions to Cape Town. Additionally, its collaboration with Mzanzi Vending, a Black-owned reverse vending business, demonstrates a commitment to promoting inclusivity and economic empowerment.
Imagined Earth accepts a wide range of recyclable materials, including:
- Aluminium cans
- Steel cans
- #1 PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
- Certain #2 HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
- Certain #5 PP (Polypropylene)
- Glass bottles
To determine whether a specific product is recyclable, simply use the scanning feature on the Imagined Earth App. Ensure that all products are dry, free of dirt and have a valid and clear barcode. Please note that products such as used oil cans, containers with hazardous liquids, coffee cups and polystyrene cannot be accepted.
Imagined Earth’s RVMs are conveniently located throughout South Africa. Currently, there are two models in operation: the 104 and the H30. Here’s how you can recycle with each model:
H30 RVM:
- Locate an RVM near you.
- Insert your empty product into the machine.
- Enter your cell phone number.
- Push ‘Finish’ to complete the process.
- Download and open the Imagined Earth app.
104 RVM:
- Locate an RVM near you.
- Push the green ‘Start Recycling’ button on the bottom right of the user screen.
- Read the operating instructions.
- Insert your empty product into the machine.
- Enter your cell phone number.
- Push ‘Finish’ to complete the process.
- Download and open the Imagined Earth app.
For each recyclable packaging item deposited, you earn one point. Your rebate is calculated based on the weight of the product and the corresponding recyclable value.
The recyclable value varies by region and is determined by Imagined Earth’s recycling partners. The rebate is calculated by multiplying the weight of the product by its recyclable value.
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To find the nearest Imagined Earth RVM, simply open the Imagined Earth App and use the ‘Find RVM’ feature in the products tab.
Accumulated points in your Imagined Earth wallet can be used as entries into competitions hosted by external brands and companies. As Imagined Earth expands its partner network, you will have even more opportunities to benefit from your earned points. The points are yours to keep and use at your convenience and they will never expire.
Imagined Earth invites you to become part of a movement that transforms recycling into a rewarding experience. By recycling your packaging waste, you not only contribute to a cleaner environment but also earn money, receive rewards and unlock a greener future for Cape Town.
Together, let’s imagine a world where recycling is the norm, and sustainable living becomes second nature. Join Imagined Earth today and make a difference—one recyclable item at a time.
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Also read:
Cape Town’s sustainability: Leading the way in environmental initiatives
Picture: Imagined Earth / Facebook