Saturday, 5 June marks World Environment Day, adding impetus to the global call to action to save the fragile ecosystem.
Despite the fact that this is an annual campaign, Cllr Margaret Arnolds, the MMC for Community Development, believes that this year’s call for environmental protection is still vital.
“In a time when nations are grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic, the onus lies on each individual to take active responsibility in restoring our planet,” says Cllr Arnolds.
To mark the occasion, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, the custodians of the City’s green lungs’ urges residents to do their part by making their living spaces green and liveable for generations to come.
The United Nations (UN) has declared this as the Decade of Ecosystem Restoration.
“Simply put, we have under a decade to get our act together by 2030, to restore the ongoing degradation of our environment and ecosystem,” she says.
World Environment Day encourages Joburgers, environmental organisations, corporates, governments and ordinary people from all walks of life to join forces in a global movement to make a tangible difference in reversing the adverse effects of climate change.
“The stark reality is that we don’t have much time but if we start now, we can restore the earth to its splendour. Join the #GenerationRestoration movement by shifting your mindset in your daily activities,” Cllr Arnolds explains.
To get involved, the MMC urges Joburg communities to plan a clean-up in a park, public open space, lake, stream or riverbank, under strict Covid-19 regulations.
Community members can also eradicate illegal dumping sites and strewn litter as well as plant indigenous trees to offset carbon monoxide, harmful pollutants and assist with pollination.
“Start a vegetable or herb garden but be sure to know which ones grow seasonally. Dispose of organic waste in your garden and use that as compost,” she adds.
Residents should also plant fruit trees, reduce, reuse and recycle waste at home and use energy sparingly, e.g. solar heating, energy-saving lights, saving water or taking a walk to your nearby grocery store instead of driving.
“Initiate discussions, engagements and fun activities with neighbours, family and friends while visiting your local park,” she says.