Current issues
An e-waste collection day is organised by ARRA (Arcadia Residents' and Ratepayers' Association) twice per year. This is an opportunity to get rid of all used batteries, old mobile phones, dysfunctional irons, hair-dryers, toasters, kettles, old television sets, computer equipment, scanners, printers, printer cartridges, electronic toys, power supplies and cables, stoves, washing-machines, gaming consoles and all other electrical appliances. These items can all be disposed of by delivering them to the Arcadia Primary School on the dates indicated well in advance. Items are refurbished, recycled or dismantled. Battery acids and other dreadful chemicals will not end up in the landfill where they can harm the environment.
An continuous effort is being made to encourage participating residents’ associations to make use of the weekly paper collection by Ronnie and the collection of all other recyclables by the Waste Group. Getting rid of all possible recyclables in this manner leaves the trolley bin with room to get rid of garden refuse.
Efforts are being made through negotiation with the Tshwane Sports & Recreation Department to regulate the use of parks for sports, as the overuse is having a serious detrimental effect on the parks, especially now during the drought.
Negotiations are also taking place to get more Metro Police involvement in enforcing by-laws with respect to the use of public spaces. Individuals plying their business in Soutpansberg Road were reported and were removed by the Metro Police. This indicates a willingness on the part of the Metro to assist, but they cannot solve all of the problems.