Brief
Woolworths manager Ralph Jewson appointed chair of South Africa Plastics Pact steering committee
Jewson will oversee the pact’s strategic work, including a 2030 roadmap and new design guidelines.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Woolworths sustainability project manager Ralph Jewson has been named chair of the South African Plastics Pact’s newly formed steering committee, according to bizcommunity.com.
What happened
The committee, announced on 6 October 2026, brings together representatives from brand owners, retailers, converters, recyclers, hospitality, waste collection, government, and NGOs. Members include Maritza van Dyk (PepsiCo SA), Yase Godlo (Unilever), Vaughan Pierce (Pick n Pay), Michelle Penlington (Polyoak Packaging), Johann Conradie (Myplas), and others.
What the reports add
Jewson praised the previous committee’s work under Blain van Wyk, noting its collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. He said the new group will guide activities for the next two years and oversee the imminent publication of a 2030 roadmap, updates to design guidelines, and the Plastic Reboot‑South Africa solutions.
What was said
"Under Blain van Wyk’s leadership, the previous steering committee deserves great credit," Jewson said, adding that the new roadmap will outline the pathway and strategy for the pact’s ambitious 2030 targets.
Key facts
- Ralph Jewson, Woolworths sustainability manager, will chair the SA Plastics Pact steering committee. (bizcommunity.com)
- The committee includes members from PepsiCo SA, Unilever, Pick n Pay, Polyoak Packaging, Myplas, and other sectors. (bizcommunity.com)
- The pact aims to meet 2030 targets such as a 20% reduction in virgin plastic packaging and 55% recycling rate. (bizcommunity.com)
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Woolies’ Ralph Jewson to chair SA Plastics Pact’s new steering committee”
