Learning about climate change

ENERGY saving light bulbs and more than 200 fruit trees were distributed in Orange Farm yesterday to mark International Day of Climate Change.

This initiative was led by the City’s environmental department, City Power, Joburg Water, City Parks and emergency management services under the theme “Mobilising Joburg citizens to act today and save tomorrow.”

International day of climate change focuses on raising awareness about the effects of global warming. The day was introduced by 350.org, an international environmental pressure group, in 2009. The goal is to build a global grassroots movement to raise awareness and slow down the rate of global warming.

With Joburg in the grip of a heat wave, it was an opportune day to observe the issue. In yesterday’s sweltering heat, City officials bearing banners reading “Go green” and “Save energy” spoke to people about the consequences of global warming.

They also handed out energy saving light bulbs and trees to residents. The campaign generated a lot of interest among the people of Orange Farm, who asked many questions about global warning.

The City’s managing director of climate change and air quality, Barney Kgope, said immediate action needed to be taken against climate change. “Global warming is happening faster than ever and humans are responsible. Just a few degrees [difference] in temperatures can completely change the world.”

Several initiatives would be organised throughout the city to raise awareness of climate change. “We need to change our lifestyle completely to stop harming the environment.”

Sipho Ndlovu, an Orange Farm resident, thanked the City. “I am going to choose a nice spot at my home and plant this tree immediately.”

The activities were also part of the build-up to the 17th Conference of the Parties which will be held in Durban from 28 November to 9 December. More than 20 000 delegates from around the world are expected to attend this important international conference.