Heeding the rallying cry to heal our planet

WHEN it comes to the restoration of ecosystems, every action matters.

These were the words of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister Barbara Creecy, as the globe marked World Environment Day, under the theme “Ecosystems Restoration”, at the weekend.

This year's observation took place concurrently with the launch of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

World Environment Day is celebrated on June 5 to engage governments, businesses and citizens, in an effort to address pressing environmental issues.

“In the history of humanity, there has never been a more urgent need for all of us to heed this global rallying cry to heal our planet.

“When it comes to restoration of ecosystems, every action matters – be it from the local communities or traditional leadership, government or state entities, civil society organisations, business or individuals.

“Restoring ecosystems carries substantial benefits for the people. For every dollar invested in restoration, at least seven to 30 dollars in returns for society can be expected. Restoration also creates jobs in areas where they are most needed,” said Creecy.

To restore and maintain the country's natural landscapes, the government had invested around R26billion since the inception of the Working for Water programme in 1995, she said. In the process, more than 3.64 million hectares of land were cleared of invasive alien pants and given an average of around three follow-up treatments.

For the 2021/22 financial year, 66432 work opportunities would be created, the department said.

Meanwhile, the City has also urged residents, neighbourhoods, businesses, churches and communities to support global efforts to tackle climate change.

Cape Town, along with cities in South Africa, and worldwide, has committed to achieving carbon neutrality and climate resilience by 2050.

Carbon neutrality means introducing new technologies to clean up the fuels and activities that cause greenhouse gas emissions and global warming, while enhancing our social, economic and environmental goals.

“Let's celebrate this day by working together to tackle climate change and by taking simple actions that will have a huge impact in the long run. It is in our best interest to take bold actions now,” said the City's mayoral committee member for energy and climate change, Phindile Maxiti.

Residents are encouraged to start or support a neighbourhood food garden, reduce water usage in the home, plant indigenous water-wise plants and trees in the garden, and teach children about living more sustainably.