Sustainable waste management is more than just recycling and reducing waste—it’s about people. The success of any waste management or prevention programme depends on the individuals who drive it. That’s why, when we talk about waste, we need to talk about people. When we invest in human development through Occupational Intelligence (OI) and empowerment, we unlock long-term sustainability by shifting mindsets from passivity to proactive problem-solving.
At Taking Care of Business (TCB), we’ve seen first-hand how equipping individuals with the right skills, confidence, and a sustainability-mindset leads to lasting environmental and socio-economic impact. Our approach, rooted in the A2B methodology, fosters independence, resilience, and a sense of ownership among participants, transforming them into active contributors to the circular economy.
Why human development should be at the core of waste management
Technological advancements, legislation and infrastructure play an important role in sustainable waste management, but they alone are not enough. Without human transformation, programmes risk remaining dependent on external funding and enforcement rather than becoming self-sustaining. Investing in people ensures:
- Long-term impact – Individuals develop the skills and confidence to maintain waste reduction efforts beyond initial training.
- Mindset shifts – People move from being passive participants to proactive problem-solvers who see value in waste reduction and repurposing.
- Economic empowerment – Training and education enable individuals to generate income through waste-related enterprises.
- Community engagement – When individuals take ownership of waste solutions, entire communities benefit from cleaner environments and economic growth.
The role of Occupational Intelligence (OI) in waste management
Occupational Intelligence (OI) is the ability to adapt, problem-solve, and apply knowledge in real-world work situations. It’s a critical component in human development, particularly in waste management, where individuals must navigate challenges, identify opportunities, and sustain long-term efforts.
TCB integrates OI into its waste-to-worth initiatives (Resell, Repair and Remake) , ensuring participants gain:
- Cognitive flexibility – Learning to identify value in waste and adapt to market needs.
- Resilience and self-regulation – Overcoming psychological barriers such as fear and learned helplessness.
- Entrepreneurial thinking – Seeing waste as an opportunity rather than a burden.
By embedding OI into training, we empower individuals to not only manage waste effectively but also create economic opportunities from it.
TCB’s approach: Turning waste into worth
At TCB, we have developed several programmes that blend human development with environmental stewardship:
- Resell Programme – Equipping unemployed mothers to become successful informal clothing traders, reducing fashion waste while generating income.
- Repair Programme – Teaching individuals to repair and resell appliances, tackling e-waste and fostering entrepreneurship.
- Remake Programme – Supporting seamstresses in using donated fabric to create sustainable fashion, providing financial independence and reducing textile waste.
Each programme incorporates OI, ensuring participants build confidence and sustain their progress beyond the initial training phase.
The A2B Methodology: Unlocking human potential
At the heart of our approach is the A2B Methodology, a proven model that equips individuals with the tools needed to navigate challenges and build independence. Key principles include:
- Whole-brain development – Engaging both cognitive and emotional capacities to build problem-solving skills.
- Challenge and response dynamics – Providing ‘just-right’ challenges that encourage growth and adaptability.
- Volition and ownership – Encouraging individuals to take initiative rather than rely on external motivation.
When applied to waste management, this methodology fosters a workforce that is not only skilled but also deeply invested in sustainable practices.
Real-world impact: Bongiwe’s story
Bongiwe Jonga, a 42-year-old mother from Khayelitsha, exemplifies the power of human development in waste management. After facing personal hardships, she joined TCB’s Remake Programme, where she learned to sew using donated fabric. But beyond technical skills, she gained confidence, financial literacy, and a support network.
Today, Bongiwe runs a thriving business, employing others and contributing to her community. Her journey from hardship to success highlights how empowering individuals can create a ripple effect of positive change – both economically and environmentally.
Building an ecosystem for change
Sustainable waste management isn’t just about policies and infrastructure – it’s about people. By integrating Occupational Intelligence and human development into waste management programmes, we create an ecosystem where individuals shift from surviving to thriving, from waste collectors to value creators.
At TCB, we’ve seen the transformation firsthand over 15 years of working in the circular economy: more than 7,000 unemployed South Africans have accessed the circular economy, diverting over 20 million items from landfill and generating over R500 million in economic value. When people are empowered, waste becomes a resource, and communities flourish.
The future of waste management lies in the hands of people. Let’s invest in them.
