The world celebrated World Environment Day on 5 June and JCPZ celebrated it on 9 June 2022. This is the biggest international day for the environment observed specially to raise awareness on issues affecting the environment such as pollution and global warming.

The theme for this year is “Only One Earth”, which encourages communities to take care of the environment. This beautiful day was observed with a tree-planting ceremony during which 600 trees were planted.

“What we do doesn’t only affect the aesthetic appeal of the place. What we do also effects the intellectual and wellbeing of our children as well,” observed MMC Harris.

Development Planning MMC and Ward 74 Cllr Belinda Echeozonjoku thanked the JCPZ, the James and Ethel Gray Park Foundation as well as the active citizens of Melrose Arch.

“Thank you very much. You can count on my support for the active citizenry that has been happening. You have shown that you want to participate in anything that is good for the City of Joburg,” she said.

MMC Harris said the initiative and partnership between the James and Ethel Gray Park Foundation and JCPZ is one of the partnerships that should be used as a blueprint throughout the City. Through the adoption agreement, the foundation honoured the park. The foundation donated 600 indigenous trees.

Cllr Harris thanked them for the initiative and said: “The City cannot do it on its own. It cannot do without such partnerships and people of goodwill such as yourselves. Let us all join the world in taking action against the degradation of the environment. We could start by understanding the manner in which our behaviour and actions affect the environment, monitor our actions and take measures to mitigate undesirable impacts.”

Before the first tree could be planted, MMC Harris encouraged those who would plant the rest of the trees to speak life into them. As he planted the tree he said: “I trust that this tree will provide much love and shade to be enjoyed by the people around here. May the dogs enjoy you as well.”