Edenvale to help the environment
“We all need to work together and look after the environment surrounding us.”
The #SpekboomChallenge gripped South Africans hard and fast when it came to light that the succulent is one of the most effective carbon dioxide sponges.
It saw many South African citizens and businesses commit to planting it late last year and at the start of 2020 to improve air quality.
Scientifically known as Portulacaria Afra, and as elephant’s food or pork bush in English, the plant is indigenous to South Africa.
Hoping to do their part for the environment members of Edenvale’s community took up the challenge.
On March 14 representatives from Edenvale City Improvement District, Edenvale businesses, the Lions and Learning to Fly basketball academies will start preparing to plant over 700 succulents.
ECID manager Linda McKenzie said the plan is to plant as many Spekbooms in the CBD flower beds and then in surrounding road enclosures.
She said once the areas have been prepared planting will take place at a later stage.
In 2019 the United Nations Environment Programme said the plant absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere faster than most other trees in dry conditions.
Linda said it is believed that one hectare of Spekboom can capture between four and 10 tons of carbon dioxide.
The representatives explained that besides helping the environment, the initiative hopes to see the town restored to its former beauty.
McKenzie encouraged businesses in the CBD and community members to get involved.
The chairperson of ECID, Mark Verhoogt, hopes that other businesses in the area will participate on the day.
“People need to realise that initiatives like this are held to help Edenvale as a whole.
“We all need to work together and look after the environment surrounding us.”
Founder of the Edenvale Lions Basketball Academy, Edson Makavan, said community members must stop moaning and start helping.
Edson challenged other sporting groups in Edenvale and the surrounding areas to get involved and partake in the challenge.
The group is expected to include close to 100 individuals who will meet in the parking behind Eden Mall at 8am on March 14.
Community members interested in joining must bring their rakes, garden forks, spades and garden gloves.
Email manager@edenvalecid.co.za for more information.
