This accomplishment marks a significant milestone in L2D’s sustainability journey. This is because shopping malls usually generate a lot of waste, making the goal of diverting 90% of operational waste from landfill over 12 consecutive months particularly challenging.

The journey to achieving this certification began in 2021 when L2D partnered with WastePlan to manage waste across its malls. At that time, only 47% of waste was being diverted from landfills. L2D dramatically improved its waste diversion rate through focused efforts, clear goals and innovative strategies.

To achieve the Level 2 certification, L2D needed to divert more than 70% of its waste from landfill for 12 consecutive months. The remaining percentage was offset through waste-related projects such as composting organic waste. By the time the certification process was complete, L2D’s recycling rates across its malls ranged between 80% and 94%, with the remainder being successfully offset.

Efficient Digital Backbone

The certification journey was not without its challenges as L2D was the first to apply for Net Zero Waste certification at this scale in South Africa. Developing appropriate benchmarks and offsetting methodologies required extensive collaboration with the GBCSA. Additionally, WastePlan’s meticulous documentation and tracking system were instrumental in navigating the certification process, which involved submitting detailed weigh bills and waste management licenses.

WastePlan’s sophisticated digital tracking system allowed for precise monitoring of waste streams and the establishment of clearly defined performance targets. This data-driven approach enabled L2D to steadily increase its waste diversion rates, ultimately leading to the commencement of the certification process.

Proactively Navigating Challenges

One of the significant challenges L2D faced was changing the behaviour of its tenants, particularly in high-waste-generating environments like restaurants. Achieving buy-in from tenants was essential, and L2D had to ensure that businesses aligned with its sustainability goals.

One of the methods used was implementing a billing system that incentivised tenants to recycle based on the “user pays” principle. The billing system, which charges tenants different rates depending on whether waste is sent to landfill or recycled, was key to driving behavioural change. However, maintaining high diversion rates required optimising various components, including waste sorting equipment, tracking systems, and staff training.

Educating tenants about the importance of recycling and separating waste at source was also critical. Problematic plastics and contaminated waste are difficult to recycle. L2D encouraged tenants to switch to recyclable alternatives and trained restaurant staff to properly separate food waste from packaging to enhance recycling and composting efforts.

Effective Communications

In addition to tenant education, L2D launched the #BeTheChange social media campaign to inspire shoppers to adopt climate-positive practices, such as using reusable shopping bags and reducing their reliance on harmful plastics. Sandton City also introduced reverse vending machines that allow customers to exchange recyclable packaging for vouchers, further incentivising sustainable behaviour.

L2D’s achievement was the result of a strong partnership between L2D, WastePlan, and Solid Green Consulting. It demonstrates that, with a clear, collaborative and consistent approach, significant progress can be made in waste management and resource recovery. Lisa Reynolds, CEO of the GBCSA, praised L2D’s achievement, emphasising that sustainability is not just aspirational but achievable with the right framework and commitment.

Overall, L2D’s achievement highlights the value of collaboration, innovation, and persistence in advancing sustainability, setting a new standard for other malls and property groups in reducing their environmental impact.