Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 30 August   1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# The iconic Halfmens succulent plants, which are only found in the Richtersveld desert in the Northern Cape, and parts of Namibia, face extinction due to climate change. Over 80-percent of Halfmens have already died following a severe drought between 2016 and 2022. Botanist Piet van Wyk and the Nama community have stressed the plant’s cultural significance and the urgent need for conservation, as illegal collection also threatens its survival.

# Magalies Water has assured the public that the hyacinth removal at Hartbeespoort Dam in North West is under control, with no risk of pollution downstream in the Crocodile River. The company says the invasive plants are securely collected and processed, ensuring no debris escapes. It says this initiative is part of a broader environmental management strategy, emphasising sustainability and community well-being. Magalies Water says it remains committed to preserving the dam’s ecosystem and minimising environmental impact.

# And finally, the 60th edition of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition received a record 59-thousand-228 entries from 117 countries and territories. The Natural History Museum has released a few photographs up for the prize. Award-winning British photographer and writer based in Cape Town, Tommy Trenchard, is one of the nominees for his image titled Hooked. While onboard the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise, Trenchard captured the final thrashes of a requiem shark as it was pulled out of the ocean. The winners will be announced in October.

Stay tuned for more news………….