Waste not only poses a threat to the ecology but also to human life. One major way of addressing the threats posed by waste is through recycling, not only to create a clean environment, but also to provide socio-economic benefits for recyclers. While the South African government has made commitments to ensure sustainable waste management programmes, feasibility studies conducted in Alice indicate the town is currently facing environmental and health hazards as a result of the build-up of waste and clandestine disposal sites. The article focuses on understanding what influences recycling and contributes to increased recycling activities in the town. Given the nature of the populace in Alice, illegal dumping and low recycling activities are prevalent. A number of socio-economic factors, including perceptions and attitudes, significantly influence participation in recycling in small towns of South Africa. The study, therefore, recommend