Despite living in different parts of South Africa, Simphiwe Makapela, Kylie Davids and Luvuyo Gushu each began their entrepreneurial journey with one common goal in mind – exploring opportunities to develop successful businesses in the water, biodiversity and environmental sectors. Historically, entrepreneurs looking to venture into specialised sectors, such as water and … [Read more...]
The global rise of crucial eco-restoration camps
For millennia we humans roamed the vast lands of this planet Earth, foraging for foodstuffs, hunting animals to supplement our diet as necessary. We took what we could find, as needed, and our searches led us across the accessible landmasses. It is fascinating to think of the various landscapes that scores of successive generations saw - Earth in a state before any human … [Read more...]
Young entrepreneur brings solar solutions to townships
Invented by social entrepreneur James van der Walt, the SolarTurtle recently scooped a win at the Inventors Garage at the 2017 SABC Education SA Innovation Summit, walking away with R10k. The SolarTurtle, converted from shipping containers, charges solar batteries that can be used on site or at home in low-income communities to power LED lights, charge phones or other … [Read more...]
Changing lives through recycling in Ngwelezane Township
Two years ago, Nokubonga Mnyango was dreaming about making a better life for herself and her family. She noticed the need for litter collection in her small community of Ngwelezane. After doing some research, she learned that some of the waste that was present in the township actually had value. More than this, she learned that there are businesses who would pay for this … [Read more...]
Recycling prize for textbooks and fixing classrooms
What would your school do with the prize money if you win the 2015 Schools Recycling Competition? ‘We will buy textbooks, and fix broken chairs, desks and windows at the schools.’ This shows that the learners from the schools in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, are motivated to improve their learning environment – and that recycling can make a difference at schools. The teachers … [Read more...]
My life for water
Why do lives have to be sacrificed before crucial human needs are addressed in this country? The water bubble finally burst when 4 people died in protest about poor water delivery.This propelled the truth about water onto public platforms. Do we really understand what it’s like to walk ten hours for one bucket of water? Up to the light comes the worm of corruption and … [Read more...]
Energy saving technologies could save the day
Hunger and poverty go hand in hand. Every cent saved could mean a lot to a starving child; so reduction of fuel costs could mean the difference between going to bed without food or having a meal. Energy saving technologies abound…from old fashioned ideas such as a Haybox or Wonderbox to a myriad of designs for rocket stoves. However, this knowledge is not being passed on to … [Read more...]
Leading South Africa to a greener future
A wave of green consciousness is sweeping South Africa as the world prepares for COP17, which is set to kick off in Durban from the 28th of November. World leaders debate in congress and we all look to one another for answers, while green warriors lead the way, demonstrating the pivotal role ordinary people like you and I can play in ensuring the call to “Go Green” is … [Read more...]
Water is sacrificed for gold
When the Climate Train arrived in Johannesburg, Nasrec station earlier this month we all knew we were in for an eventful three days. However, unless you’re a football fan, you probably have very little reason to visit Nasrec Station. Since the Soccer World Cup was hosted in South Africa last year, this pristine station has for the most part been quiet. But when the train … [Read more...]
To pollute or not to pollute
William Shakespeare has proven it to us countless times; theatre is a great way of teaching a community to bring about change. Ten high school learners from Walmer Township near Port Elizabeth have helped develop a play that illustrates the dangers of pollution using physical theatre, puppetry and improvisational theatre. Leave a legacy, not a mess, developed with the help … [Read more...]
Holistic support for young girls
Earthchild Project is a Cape Town based NPO with a distinct focus on the holistic development of children, teachers, schools and communities. Earthchild Project creates change that is meaningful and sustainable for these individuals and communities by providing them with the pertinent skills and means to live their lives in a more holistic, balanced and fulfilled fashion. This … [Read more...]
Blitz Houses receive garden trees
Three giants on the sustainable development front have partnered to plant 112 trees in the Mbekweni township just north of Paarl as part of Food and Trees for Africa's Trees for Homes initiative. The Niall Mellon Township Trust (NMTT), the Ackermann Family Foundation and Food and Trees for Africa (FTFA) are ensuring resilient indigenous trees will soon be taking root besides … [Read more...]
