The DMRE has proposed Gas to Power Powership Projects at the Port of Ngqura Eastern Cape and in Saldanha Bay Western Cape and in Richards Bay. On Tuesday 20 April, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) will brief Parliament’s Portfolio Committee for Minerals and Energy to evaluate its proposed bids on the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producers (RMIPPP), … [Read more...]
Short film aims to ban animal testing in SA
Hollywood filmmakers and movie stars have joined forces with Humane Society International to produce a powerful stop-motion animated short film, #SaveRalph, to end cosmetic testing on animals around the world, including South Africa. Although banned in 40 countries, the practice is still legal in most of the world, and is even making a comeback in some regions, subjecting … [Read more...]
SA hake fishery impacts threatened sharks and rays
In November 2020, WILDTRUST submitted a formal Objection to the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification of the South African Hake Trawl Fishery. MSC certification is an “eco-label” found on seafood packaging, supposedly confirming the products contained came from a sustainable fishery. In its Objection the WILDTRUST cited concerns about the fishery's impact on … [Read more...]
Forging a path to forest restoration and well-being
The theme for this year’s International Day of Forests (IDF) is “Forest restoration: a path to recovery and well-being” and it’s one that resonates with the local forest industry. “Many people don’t know that timber plantations in South Africa were originally established to provide an alternative timber supply, in order to protect our few natural forests from further … [Read more...]
SA researchers shortlisted in international forestry research award
Three South African researchers have made it to the global shortlist of the Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation Awards. They were selected from 14 candidates in the South African round. The awards, launched in 2016 by the International Council of Forest and Paper Associations (ICFPA), aim to recognise, celebrate and promote innovations being developed in the global … [Read more...]
Paper Recycling 101 for Global Recycling Day
One of the planet’s most pressing problems is the incorrect disposal of waste. About 2.01 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste is generated annually, according to the World Bank, with conservative estimates being that at least 33% of that isn’t managed in an environmentally safe manner. With the majority of municipal solid waste coming from homes, Global Recycling Day on … [Read more...]
South Africans speak out against major nuclear expansion
“The ongoing issues from the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan, which happened ten years ago this month (11 March), is a stark reminder of the many compelling arguments against any new nuclear for South Africa.” So says the Southern African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute (SAFCEI) and Earthlife Africa Johannesburg. Interested and affected communities also raised … [Read more...]
Exploring pan-African renewable energy projects
In the latest episode of Connecting Africa, CNN International’s Eleni Giokos explores why Africa's investment in renewable energy projects is so important for pan-African business growth. Electrification is seen as key in driving economic growth across Africa. But with only 43% of the continent connected to electricity, finding ways to secure and propel the continent towards … [Read more...]
Energy performance certificate boosts energy efficiency
SANEDI believes that the issuing of the first-ever Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for a building in South Africa recently is a landmark achievement that will encourage energy efficiency across the board. According to the International Energy Agency buildings account for approximately 30% of global energy consumption and 40% of total direct and indirect CO2 emissions. … [Read more...]
Polystyrene industry steps up to help clean Hennops River
The increased rainfall in Pretoria over the past few weeks has resulted in an increase of waste collection in the so-called "poly-island" litter trap which is cleaned and maintained by the Hennops Revival NPO. The poly-island is a natural litter trap that was created many years ago by two trees that had fallen across the river and became lodged in a V-shape that collects the … [Read more...]
Schools club to increase recycling knowledge and awareness
It is no secret that educating children about the environment and the importance of recycling is key to ensuring that we create a generation of responsible adults. It is with this in mind that last year, PETCO began looking for a partner who would have the experience and reach to spread the message about recycling (and specifically PET recycling) in schools in South Africa. … [Read more...]
SA hake fishery celebrates fourth certification for seafood sustainability
Supported by government, industry and market stakeholders, the SA hake trawl fishery’s MSC status places it amongst the best managed fisheries in the world – helping to maintain its international market presence and deliver long-term socio-economic benefits to the South African people. The fishery is celebrating 16 years of MSC certification following the announcement of its … [Read more...]
Educating the public about water conservation
The SA government’s annual National Water Week campaign for 2021 is scheduled to take place during the week of 15 – 22 March, culminating in the United Nations’ World Water Day that will this year be celebrated around the world on Monday, 22 March 2021. The aim of this annual event is to educate the public about their responsibility in water conservation initiatives, whilst … [Read more...]
