Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 10 June 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# The Presidential Climate Commission says it is deeply concerned about the country’s readiness for climate change and extreme weather. This comes as several parts of the country experienced heavy rains and flooding last week, including a tornado in KwaZulu-Natal. The commission’s Crispian Olver says urgent work needs to be done to improve South Afica’s resilience to these kinds of extreme weather phenomenons.

# Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment minister, Barbara Creecy, has urged citizens to play their part in minimising marine pollution by adopting sustainable practices. These include reducing littering, participating in beach clean-ups, and recycling materials. Oceans influence weather patterns, support diverse ecosystems, and provide livelihoods for millions of people worldwide, including 40-percent of South Africa’s population residing within 100 kilometres of the coastline. Creecy says much of the world’s oceans remain unexplored, emphasising the need for increased awareness and conservation efforts.

# And finally: The sardine run has begun, with the first big net hauls reported on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast. Hibberdene and Lucien Beach near Margate saw the first catches. This natural phenomenon benefits residents and fish businesses and attracts predators like whales and sharks, as well as international visitors. The shoal is expected to head towards Durban, depending on wind and currents. Meanwhile beaches in Amanzimtoti and surrounds have been closed for swimming as a result of the sardine run and the associated shark activity around the shoal.

Stay tuned for more news………….