GREEN has become the new black, as environmental concerns have become increasingly prominent in today’s society. The general public have, almost on a daily basis, been bombarded with doom and gloom forecasts of spiraling carbon emissions, deforestation and other forms of pollution.
Many have attempted to pursue a ‘green’ or eco-friendly lifestyle, but it is easy to feel overwhelmed among the copious amounts of available information and products.
This is where uMhlanga resident, Kerry Dell’s, vision of a eco-friendly television show sprung to life. “I wanted to show people that there are easy and cost efficient solutions available right here in South Africa. People have this notion that a green lifestyle is expensive and/or that it will downgrade their current lifestyle, but it is not true. By talking a stand, even if it involves small changes, can make a difference. You can save money, make a positive impact on the environment, and live a healthy and fabulous life,” she explained.
The show, Earthbeat, which Dell hosts, is set to take the audience across South Africa, and introduce them to some of the most innovative people in terms of sustainable eco-living. According to Dell, The show will incorporate three aspects of a person’s life – home, business, travel and health.
“We have interviewed some incredibly interesting people. In one episode we interview a luxury hotel owner, Herbie Ellison, who manages to run a nine bedroom eco-guesthouse with a monthly electricity bill of R600. It was also fantastic to meet other businessmen who are walking the talk. They are running green businesses with resounding success. With such unbelievable proof why would you choose not shift to a green lifestyle?” she asked.
Other interesting episodes feature an organic community garden, a stock broker who completely changed his life when he decided to take up farming, and luxurious home built out of clay.
Dell, a business woman, who has thorough knowledge and experience in natural health, energy management and sustainable solutions were asked to present the show while she pitched her idea to the Tekweni Television Productions, who is also responsible for 50/50, in early July. In August she began travelling and filming around the country.
Audiences will get a taste of the innovative show from Tuesday, 2 December to Friday, 5 December in celebration of 20th annual Conference of the Parties (COP) at 7.30pm. The series will officially launch on Wednesday, 7 January on DSTV channel 190 at 6.30pm.
Dell suggests the following simple green living tips to get Northglen News’s readers inspired:
– Opt for solar energy. “Our country’s beautiful weather is perfect for this option,” she beamed
– Consider rain harvesting. The water can be used to water plants and other tasks
– Switch to energy saving light bulbs, shower heads, and heat pumps for your geyser
– Start your own vegetable garden. Not only is it healthy and cost effective, but it is a fun activity for the whole family.
