WORLD CLEANUP DAY 2026: Small Actions. Cleaner Future.

Every day, the choices we make about what we buy, use, reuse and throw away have an impact on the world around us.

World Cleanup Day, observed on 20 September, is an opportunity to think beyond simply picking up litter. It encourages us to consider how we create waste in the first place, how much of it can be avoided, and what each of us can do to help build cleaner, healthier communities.

This year, under the global theme “From Clean Plates to Clean Cities,” there is also a particular focus on food waste and the role responsible consumption can play in creating a more sustainable future.

South Africa’s waste challenge

South Africa has made meaningful progress in building a recycling economy, but there is still more that can be done.

In 2025, PETCO reported that 86,000 m³ of post-consumer PET plastic and liquid-board packaging handled through its member system was diverted from landfill. It also reported that 87% of PET beverage bottles within its member stream were recycled.

Food waste presents another significant challenge. Research by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research estimates that approximately 10.3 million tonnes of edible food are lost or wasted in South Africa every year — equivalent to around 34% of local food production.

These numbers show that sustainability is not only about what happens after something reaches the bin. It begins with the choices we make before then.

Simple actions can make a meaningful difference

Living more sustainably does not have to mean completely changing the way you live. Small, consistent actions can collectively make a significant difference.

You can start by:

• Separating recyclable waste from general household waste wherever possible.
• Emptying and rinsing containers before placing them in recycling.
• Choosing reusable bags, bottles and containers instead of single-use alternatives.
• Planning meals and shopping carefully to help reduce unnecessary food waste.
• Using leftovers and freezing excess food rather than throwing it away.
• Switching off lights and electronic devices when they are not in use.
• Reducing unnecessary printing and choosing double-sided printing when paper is required.
• Reusing before replacing by asking whether an item can be repaired, repurposed or given another life.

No individual action will solve our environmental challenges on its own. But when better choices become everyday habits across households, workplaces and communities, their collective impact grows.

Sustainability at Access Bank

At Access Bank, we believe responsible growth includes taking care of the communities and environments in which we operate.

Our broader sustainability commitment includes promoting environmental awareness, using resources more responsibly, improving waste management and supporting positive social and environmental outcomes.

This commitment extends beyond what we say. In 2026, Access Bank was named Africa’s Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence, recognising the Group’s continued focus on creating positive impact alongside sustainable business growth.

For us, that recognition is not the destination. It is encouragement to continue finding practical ways to contribute to a more sustainable future.

It starts with one action

World Cleanup Day reminds us that a cleaner future is something we all have a role in creating.

You do not have to start with a grand gesture.

Separate your recycling. Carry a reusable bottle. Waste less food. Use less paper. Pick up litter instead of walking past it.

Choose one action. Make it a habit. Then build from there.