The Ekurhuleni Metro has been dubbed the industrial hub of Southern Africa, and this status has both positive and negative implications for its citizens.
Ekurhuleni falls within the Highveld Priority Area, as per the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, as a result of air pollution linked to industry.
In an effort to boost the air quality in the region, the metro has embarked on an ambitious project aimed at planting 11 000 trees in all its 101 wards.
The project began in April, at the opening of Motsu Park, in Tembisa, and will culminate in an 11-minute challenge on September 13 – in celebration of Arbor Day.
The “11 000 Trees in 11 Minutes in 101 Wards” challenge will require the participation of Ekurhuleni residents from all walks of life.
Join the movement by contacting your ward councillor or your area project manager to obtain a tree.
“The programme’s bold objective is to create an urban forest as a climate change proofing initiative, to directly respond to the formidable challenges and risks posed by the pending, unpredictable negative impact of this environmental change,” said head of department for environmental resource management and development Hezekiel Nkosi.
“Why in 11 minutes, you ask?
“The time given is symbolic of the urgency with which we need to act in order to combat the negative impact posed by climate change implications.”
Those participating in the challenge will be requested to plant their tree at a specific time on September 13, although this is not a prerequisite for participation.
Individuals, organisations, businesses, schools, churches, clubs and everyone else is invited to participate.
The contact number for the area project manager in Germiston and Katlehong is: Brenda Nkosi on 011 999-0651.
