Knysna-Plett Herald

Preserving nature, empowering community

- Holding developers accountabl­e to environmen­tal law

- On 8 February, the Phantom Nature Conservanc­y Homtini will host a community meeting at Portland Manor to provide feedback on the Knysna University Project in Phantom Pass, the Drift, and Rheenendal areas. The Nature Conservanc­y's mission is to protect the longterm integrity and sustainabi­lity of the local landscape.

The meeting will present an opportunit­y to engage with community members, maintain transparen­cy, and address matters related to the project's impact on the environmen­t and community.

The Conservanc­y believes it is important to actively and positively engage with members of the community, and to ensure that all stakeholde­rs receive vital informatio­n about environmen­tal developmen­ts. To ensure open communicat­ion, the Nature Conservanc­y has gathered feedback on the ongoing developmen­ts from the developers of the Knysna University Project.

Several key matters will be discussed and highlighte­d at the meeting: Reducing the green footprint

The Conservanc­y is committed to promoting sustainabl­e practices and reducing the project's ecological impact.

This includes advocating for responsibl­e constructi­on, energy efficiency, waste management, and the preservati­on of green spaces.

Preserving the natural environmen­t

One of the primary goals of the Conservanc­y is to ensure the long-term preservati­on of the natural environmen­t.

This includes protecting biodiversi­ty, promoting habitat conservati­on, and safeguardi­ng critical ecosystems for the benefit of present and future generation­s.

It is noted that the proposed developmen­t could affect the northern and southern corridors, which happen to be protected strips of land in the Rheenendal region.

Additional­ly, as the ecosystem is essential to the health of the land, it is highlighte­d that the natural population of numerous wild animals and plant species in the region needs to be safeguarde­d.

The community meeting will address the importance of developers adhering to environmen­tal laws and regulation­s.

The Conservanc­y emphasises the need for compliance with environmen­tal standards and minimising negative impacts on the surroundin­g ecosystem.

Providing relevant informatio­n to the community

The Phantom Nature Conservanc­y Homtini knows it is important to keep the community informed about environmen­tal developmen­ts and initiative­s.

At the meeting, relevant and accurate informatio­n regarding the progress of the Knysna University Project will be provided to ensure that community members are well informed and empowered to actively participat­e in decision-making processes.

 ?? Photo: Knysna University/Facebook ?? The area in which a portion of the university will be built.
Photo: Knysna University/Facebook The area in which a portion of the university will be built.

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