Conservation consciousness and environmental literacy are key to securing an environmental future for all people, says the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Barbara Creecy. ”Conservation consciousness cannot be the exclusive domain of a select and privileged few. It must be a key component of our environmental literacy,” said the Minister during her keynote … [Read more...]
Landmark decision for lions ahead of World Lion Day
The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) is delighted to note that the Pretoria High Court has today set aside the 2017 and 2018 lion bone quotas, stating that these were both unlawful and unconstitutional, and that due process was not followed in the setting of these quotas. Before giving his judgement, Judge Jody Kollapen said that this issue has implications for both current … [Read more...]
Getting the youth ready to face environmental challenges
Delta Environmental Centre (DEC) trained 37 trainers in April after it was appointed one of the training service providers for the Mass Training programme (DMT) of the department of environmental affairs which is part of the department’s Environmental Protection and Infrastructure Programmes (EPIP). DEC will be responsible for Project Management and Training implementation … [Read more...]
Nominations for the 8th Rhino Conservation Awards are now open
Nominations for the 8th annual Rhino Conservation Awards have officially opened and are invited from the five rhino range states of Africa. The Rhino Conservation Awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner held at the Montecasino Ballroom in Johannesburg. Award finalists will be joined at the event by high-level dignitaries under the patronage of His Serene Highness Prince … [Read more...]
Environmental service program offers youth employment and training
The environment, as well as the employment of young people, women and people living with disabilities, got a boost from the Department of Environmental Affairs’ Youth Environmental Services (YES) programme implemented in Gauteng by the Delta Environmental Centre, with 120 recruits graduating on 5 November. Five of them have already been employed by private companies and four … [Read more...]
DEA showcases the sterling work of Hoedspruit’s Environmental Monitors
The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) has applauded a group of Environmental Monitors (EM), also known as Maeba (Doves), for their impeccable work geared towards fighting the scourge of rhino poaching in the Hoedspruit area. With at least 1 659 young South Africans participating in the Environmental Monitors Programme, the initiative aims to increase conservation … [Read more...]
Upcycling gives waste an exciting new purpose
Upcycling is a fun and creative way to transform old products and packaging into something with a new purpose. According to the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA)’s Waste Management Hierarchy, upcycling, which in the most basic sense is ‘reusing’ waste, is the second most preferred waste management option after ‘reducing’ your waste. Have you ever used an old glass … [Read more...]
Kayamandi residents take ownership of their river
South Africa is the first country in the world to adopt water as a human right. A large group of Kayamandi residents gathered at the Kayamandi Economic and Tourism Centre on Human Rights' Day to celebrate Water Week. They were entertained by the Department of Water Affairs' own personal choir and inspirational speakers who urged them to take ownership of the Eerste River. The … [Read more...]
Green paper sets the tone for SA business’ future
The Department of Environmental Affairs has released the much anticipated and long delayed National Climate Change Response Green Paper. In a brief summary, those points pertinent to you and your business are listed below: South Africa targets: reduction in greenhouse gases of 34% by 2020 and 42% by 2025 below business as usual scenario. The use of incentives and … [Read more...]