Planting a forest to fight climate change
The City of Ekurhuleni Metro Municipality has embarked on an ambitious project aimed to plant 11 000 trees in its 101 wards.
ALBERTON – The City of Ekurhuleni has been dubbed the industrial hub of Southern Africa. This status has both positive and negative implications for its citizens.
The City falls within the Highveld Priority Area as per the National Environmental Management Air Quality Act, as a result of air pollution linked to industry.
In an effort to boost the air quality in the region, the City of Ekurhuleni Metro Municipality has embarked on an ambitious project aimed at planting 11 000 trees in its 101 wards.
The project began in April at the opening of Motsu Park in Tembisa, and will culminate in an 11-minute challenge on September 13 in celebration of Arbor Day.
“The 11 000 Trees in 11 Minutes in 101 Wards challenge will require the participation of Ekurhuleni residents from all walks of life. Join the movement by contacting your ward councillor or your area project manager to obtain a tree.
The programme’s bold objective is to create an urban forest as a climate change proofing initiative, to directly respond to the formidable challenges and risks posed by the pending unpredictable negative impacts of this environmental change,” said Head of Department for Environmental Resource Management and Development Hezekiel Nkosi.
“Why in 11 minutes, you ask. The time given is symbolic of the urgency we need to act in order to combat the negative impacts posed by climate change implications,” added Nkosi.
Those participating in the challenge will be requested to plant their trees at a specific time on September 13, although this is not a prerequisite for the participation. Individuals, organisations, businesses, schools, churches, clubs and everyone else are invited to partake.
Contact details for the project manager in Thokoza, Katlehong and Alberton are Brenda Nkosi she can be reached on 011 999 0651.
