Western Cape Recycler Doubles Processing Capacity With R3 Million Investment In High Volume Baler

CL Trading invests R3 million in a high volume Enerpat baler to double its recycling capacity and support over 700 waste pickers in the Western Cape.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 29, 2026, 10:26 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Engineering News

Strategic Upgrade To Regional Waste Management Infrastructure

The Western Cape recycling sector has received a significant technological boost following the installation of a R3 million Enerpat horizontal baler by CL Trading. This 30 year old waste management firm, which previously operated with a monthly capacity of 3,500 tons, aims to double its processing volume in the coming months. The acquisition was funded through a combination of capital investment by the company and financial assistance from Petco, a prominent producer responsibility organisation dedicated to building a circular economy in South Africa.

Technological Advancement In Baling Efficiency

The newly commissioned machinery represents a substantial leap in operational speed compared to standard industry equipment. While traditional balers require approximately 25 minutes to produce a single bale of recyclable material, the Enerpat unit has demonstrated the ability to produce a one ton bale in just over three minutes. According to CL Trading MD Shaun Styger, this high volume capability allows the company to handle significantly more material, ensuring that a larger volume of waste is diverted from local landfill sites.

Logistical Gains And Competitive Pricing Models

Beyond speed, the new horizontal baler offers major advantages in logistical density and transport efficiency. The increased density of the resulting bales allows for a higher payload on trucks and shipping containers, which lowers the overall cost of transportation. Styger explained that these logistical savings will enable the company to pass on better processing rates to its suppliers, who are primarily composed of waste pickers and small collection businesses operating within the provincial recycling network.