Making an Impact off the Field

SA Rugby, in collaboration with CRDC SA, helped build 15 housing units in 2024, utilising plastic waste collected at three events the local governing body hosted with World Rugby last year.

To date, SA Rugby and CRDC SA have contributed towards the manufacturing of almost 50,000 blocks – which can be used to construct 42 40m2 BNG housing units – with waste collected from events over the last three years.

This initiative has been recognised with a number of international awards, including a Climate Action Award from the International Olympic Committee, as well as the Rugby for All Award from World Rugby, which celebrates impactful initiatives that uphold the sport’s core values.

The “Bag That Builds” project, which was launched at Rugby World Cup Sevens in Cape Town in 2022 and is aligned with World Rugby’s Environmental Sustainability Plan 2030, was implemented last year at the World Rugby U20 Championship, WXV 2 women’s tournament, and the HSBC SVNS Cape Town.

Plastic waste, including non-recyclables, collected in green bags from team hotels and stadiums, are converted into an eco-aggregate called RESIN8, which is then used to replace a portion of natural aggregates in the production of concrete bricks or blocks which in turn are used in the construction of houses.

“Apart from collecting waste that would usually end up in landfills, we also helped create jobs and housing in a sustainable manner for people who desperately need a roof over their heads,” said Mr Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby.

“At the three events last year, we collected 1862 bags of plastic waste, which were turned into almost 65000 bricks and in the process, 79 jobs were created as a result of the projects.

“We often talk about making a difference in the lives of ordinary South Africans, and while we are very proud of our teams’ efforts on the field, we are also immensely proud of this project and the impact it has had away from television cameras and public eyes.”

Abraham Avenant, CEO of CRDC SA, said: “SA Rugby created hope to all South Africans on the field over the past few years. CRDC SA is proud to be part of this initiative by SA Rugby in creating hope off the field and building a stronger South Africa together.”