We can learn from the Swedes

AFTER spending a chilly week in Malmo, Sweden at the invitation of a Swedish NGO on an intermunicipal knowledge exchange partnership, it’s good to be back in the Mother City.

Apart from the warmer weather, Cape Town’s unique spirit of hospitality and natural beauty is incomparable. However, some game-changing sustainable and renewable energy plans relating to everyday “smart living” can be learnt from the Swedes.

Like the Netherlands, cycling is a way of life in Sweden, despite inclement weather. Whether you’re a toddler or an octogenarian, a daily sea of commuting cyclists prevail on inner city roads.

Malmo spends a huge portion of its budget on educating its citizens, especially its juvenile learners on the importance of developing a green economy, implementing practical initiatives such as the use of non- motorised transport to reduce carbon emissions and planting communal vegetable gardens. Recycling, reducing and reusing waste is another nobrainer. As in most First World countries, households are encouraged to separate domestic waste and appropriate storage facilities adjoin residential complexes.

Green buildings and extensive residential apartment blocks situated on the Western Harbour of Malmo is an example of a partnership of developers and local government aimed at inculcating smart living.

I am pleased to report that the City of Cape Town has set in motion its own sustainable and renewable energy resource and smart- living strategies. Readers can find out more at www.cityofcapetown.co.za