Help metro plant trees against climate change
Ekurhuleni has been dubbed as the industrial hub of Southern Africa, and this status has both positive and negative implications for its citizens.
In an effort to boost the air quality in the region, the metro has embarked on an ambitious project aimed at planting 11 000 trees in all 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 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,” says HOD for Environmental Resource Management and Development, Hezekiel Nkosi.
“The time given is symbolic of the urgency we need to act in order to combat the negative impacts posed by climate change implications.”
Those participating in the challenge will be requested to plant their tree 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.
The project manager for the Brakpan, Tsakane, Vosloorus and Boksburg area is Wanda van der Merwe and she may be contacted on 011 999 5676. – @CarmenBoksburg
