Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 7 February 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# The City of Tshwane has advanced its energy independence with a request for information targeting independent power producers for alternative energy solutions. Seeking to reduce reliance on Eskom, the request aims to diversify the energy mix at Pretoria West and Rooiwal power stations. Council approved a 40-year lease for the two power stations, aiming to source one-thousand megawatts from alternative sources within three years to mitigate the impact of load-shedding. The request is available on the city and National Treasury’s websites.

# Firefighters in the Cape Winelands have managed to contain the Brandvlei fire outside Worcester, although there are many hot spots and several smouldering pine stumps in the area. The firefighters spent yesterday evening protecting properties monitoring various fire lines including in Baviaanshoek and Matroosberg. Cape Winelands District Municipality’s spokesperson, Jo-Anne Otto, says there have been no damage to homes or the Brandvlei prison facility:

# And finally: The South African National Parks team has initiated a consultative process for the management plan of the Robben Island Marine Protected Area. The plan aims to increase the conservation footprint of South Africa and contribute to the safeguarding of the country’s oceans, islands, and coastal habitats. It also seeks to conserve and protect biodiversity, including threatened seabirds such as African penguins, and Cape cormorants. Additionally, the plan aims to provide an appropriate environment for research and monitoring, as well as promote environmental education.

Stay tuned for more news………….