Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 28 July 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has launched a field trial of biobased, biodegradable mulch films on a pineapple farm near Peddie in the Eastern Cape. The project, funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, aims to replace fossil-fuel plastic films with eco-friendly alternatives. The new films decompose into organic matter, reducing microplastic pollution. Officials say the innovation supports both crop performance and South Africa’s circular economy goals in agriculture.

# SANParks has concluded a series of focus group workshops shaping Table Mountain National Park under the new ten-year Park Management Plan and Marine Protected Area Management Plan from 2027 to 2036. Led by Chand Environmental Consultants, the sessions tackled marine protection, cultural heritage, socio-economic transformation, and biodiversity. SANParks says experts have highlighted key priorities including climate change, job creation, and heritage preservation. Public engagement will follow as the plan takes shape, aiming to secure the park’s ecological, cultural, and economic future.

# And finally: Cape Town deputy mayor Eddie Andrews says the metro is committed to protecting wetlands and strengthening international commitments for wetland conservation. Cape Town counts among 43 accredited Wetland Cities around the world. The metro recently introduced its first Wetlands Report. The report recognises the best-practice work that has been undertaken to date in implementing policies and plans, to ensure Cape Town’s wetlands are protected, rehabilitated and restored. Andrews says the report provides the public with a comprehensive and beautiful summary of Cape Town’s Natural wetlands and watercourses.

Stay tuned for more news………….