Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Children lay roots planting trees
ABOUT 120 learners from local schools participated in Earth Day activities this week, such as tree planting to foster environmental awareness and stewardship by maintaining green community spaces.
The theme of this year's Earth Day event, Planet v Plastics, is aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of a clean environment in an urban context.
It is also aligned to the mandate of the Recreation and Parks Department which, as stewards of public open spaces across the metropole, plays a key role in managing open spaces prone to build-up of plastic waste, and dumping.
Learners from Sunshine Educare, Delft Primary and Vergenoegd Primary participated in the activities promoting environmental awareness and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for their local park. As part of the initiative 10 fig trees (Ficus natalensis) were planted.
Other activities included a fashion show featuring garments made from recycled waste materials. The department also distributed Spekboom trees.
The City's Environmental Management Department's Environmental
Capacity Unit conducted a waste minimisation awareness programme, and did stormwater drain stencilling to encourage people not to block drains with litter as part of the Bin it do not Block it! campaign.
Urban Waste Management brought its mascot, Bingo, who spoke about the harmful effects of littering in a fun and educational way.
Mayco member for community services and health, Patricia van der Ross, said: “There is a saying that goes ‘as the twig is bent, so grows the tree', which means that early influences have a permanent effect. So it is our hope that the dozens of young ones who attended our Earth Day celebration will grow up to be ambassadors for their environment, and the planet.
“It is crucial we limit our personal impact on our surroundings, not only for our own benefit, but also for a more sustainable future and the generations that are yet to come.
“Through collaborative efforts across City departments, we demonstrate our commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
“Let's ACT Cape Town because even small actions can lead to big changes to build a stronger, more future-fit city,” said Van der Ross