The City of Johannesburg, through its conservation agency Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), joins the global community in commemorating the International Day for Biological Diversity under the theme “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development”. This year’s theme calls for urgent collective action to reverse biodiversity loss while aligning development with environmental protection.

Locally, biodiversity conservation is being championed through key initiatives like the Suncasa Project along the Jukskei River. Supported by Canadian government and private sector partners, the project restores vital ecosystems, improves water quality, and mitigates flooding in communities along the Jukskei and Braamfontein Spruit.

In Soweto, a Danish delegation is supporting similar work around Moroka Dam in collaboration with JCPZ and the Johannesburg Roads Agency. These efforts focus on reviving aquatic ecosystems, enhancing climate resilience, and sharing global best practices.

In celebration of Biodiversity Day, JCPZ will host environmental awareness sessions and plant fruit trees at Nomzamo Madikizela Mandela Primary School in Braamfischerville. Tree-planting initiatives will also take place in Alexandra and at Olifantsvlei Cemetery.|

These efforts complement broader City programmes like the River Health Programme and Alien Plant Control Programme, which promote indigenous tree planting, remove invasive species, and involve communities in safeguarding natural assets.

JCPZ calls on all Joburg residents and institutions to be active participants in protecting biodiversity — the foundation of clean air, safe water, and sustainable livelihoods for future generations.