Capital Equipment News August 2025

RECYCLING

Dr Mehran Zarrebini, CEO of Mathe Group is pictured at the factory in Hammarsdale. In the foreground is the steel that has been removed from the tyres and in the rear are used tyres waiting to be recycled.

significant challenge. “One of the greatest challenges is around funding of such a project,” Dr Zarrebini says. “We are in discussion with international investors and partners to see how we can jointly set up such an operation. The barriers to entry and friction involved in funding such projects in South Africa are inhibiting, and we see the international market being much more attractive.” He believes the first step is to implement a robust national tyre waste management plan. “What we have seen over the years is a lack of interest in the sector and comprehensive decision making,” he says. “We also need comprehensive incentives to ensure the industry becomes and remains sustainable.” Building Africa’s benchmark recycler Mathe Group’s growth strategy is built on more than just expanding capacity. “Our vision is to position Mathe Group as Africa’s benchmark for sustainable tyre recycling and value-added rubber manufacturing,” Dr Zarrebini says. Over the next decade, the company plans to broaden its product range into higher-value applications and invest in advanced recycling technologies to maximise material recovery. But Dr Zarrebini also sees a role for Mathe Group beyond its own operations. “We see

We see our role as a catalyst, helping to shape industry standards, supporting regulatory development, and demonstrating commercially viable models for circular manufacturing in South Africa.

Mehran Zarrebini CEO of Mathe Group is pictured with Cyril Khumalo HR & SHEQ Manager, Sithembiso Sishi Production Manager and Mlungisi Madonsela Production Team Leader (Product inspection).

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